Consensus: Definition, Usage & Common Mistakes

Meaning 1：general agreement (consensus)

consensus 🔊

/kənˈsen.səs/

the final decision that everyone agrees on after talking about it.

Consensus illustrated by a diverse group agreeing at a meeting table with a checkmark

general agreement 🔊

➕

/ˈdʒen.ər.əl əˈɡriː.mənt/

A general agreement among all the members of a group, typically reached after discussion.

📁 Category：Countries & Government 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Latin: 'con-' (together) + 'sentire' (to feel) -> 'consensus' (feeling together).

💡 Mnemonic

All senators say YES together! (CON + SEN + SUS sounds like 'senators say yes')

📖 Example

After a long discussion, the class finally reached a consensus to go to the beach for their class trip. 🔊 After a long discussion, the class finally reached a consensus to go to the beach for their class trip.

🔗 Collocations

reach a consensus – to achieve general agreement

broad consensus – a wide or general agreement

consensus decision – a decision made through general agreement

🔄 Synonyms

agreement (n.) – Harmony or accordance in opinion or feeling.

accord (n.) – Official agreement or harmony.

unanimity (n.) – Complete agreement among all people involved.

🚫 Antonyms

disagreement (n.) – Lack of consensus or accord; a difference of opinion.

dissent (n.) – The expression or holding of opinions at variance with those previously, commonly, or officially held.

conflict (n.) – A serious disagreement or argument.

📖 Cultural Story

Derived from Latin 'consentire' meaning 'to agree'. In modern culture, achieving consensus is a cornerstone of democratic decision-making in business, politics, and academia, emphasizing collective agreement over individual authority.