Which statement best defines an express contract?

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Express contracts are formed when the terms are stated directly by the parties, either in writing or orally. So the best definition is that an express contract can be either written or verbal. This distinguishes it from implied contracts, which arise from actions or circumstances rather than explicit terms. The option stating written only misses valid oral express contracts, and the option stating verbal only misses valid written express contracts. Therefore, the correct description is that an express contract can be either written or verbal.