WordGarden.ioconsensus
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /kənsˈɛnsəs/
US
- /kənˈsɛnsəs/
Meanings
Noun
general agreement among the members of a group
the opinion or judgment that most people accept
Beyond the definition
Imagine a group trying to decide where to go for dinner. If everyone eventually agrees on pizza—not because someone told them to, but because they all genuinely feel it's the best option—that's a consensus. It's more than just majority rule; it's about finding common ground where everyone can support a decision, even if it wasn't their first choice. You might strive for consensus in a team meeting or during political negotiations. A lack of consensus often leads to deadlock and frustration!
Consensus describes a general agreement among a group of people. It's not simply about everyone voting the same way (though that can lead to consensus). Instead, it's about reaching a decision that everyone can live with, even if they don't get everything they want. Think of building a house: architects, builders, and homeowners all need to reach a consensus on the design before construction begins.
The word comes from Latin roots meaning "to feel together." This hints at the core idea – a shared understanding and acceptance. It's often used in contexts where collaboration is crucial, like politics ("reaching a consensus on climate change policy"), business ("the team reached consensus on the new marketing strategy"), or even within families ("we finally came to a consensus about vacation plans").
Consensus can also describe a group's general opinion: "The consensus is that the plan is too risky." In this sense, it means what most people in a group believe after discussion, evidence, or experience.
Importantly, consensus doesn't necessarily mean unanimous agreement. It's possible for a small number of people to have reservations but still support the overall decision because they believe it's the best path forward. True consensus requires open communication, active listening, and a willingness to compromise. Without it, you might end up with resentment or a solution that doesn't truly address everyone's needs. So, when you hear about people striving for consensus, remember it's about building bridges and finding common ground – a harmonious blend of different perspectives.
Examples
- 1
Team decision
After a long discussion, the team reached a consensus on the new schedule.
- 2
Policy debate
There seems to be a growing consensus that the policy needs to change.
- 3
Leadership choice
The committee could not reach a consensus about who should lead the project.
- 4
Scientific agreement
There is broad consensus among scientists that the climate is warming.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Medical treatment
Doctors still do not have a clear consensus on the best treatment for this condition.
- 6
Board decision
The board approved the plan by consensus rather than by a formal vote.
- Phraseby consensus
with general agreement, without needing a vote
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- reach a consensus
- broad consensus
- consensus view
- consensus among
Word family
Explore
- compromise
- common ground
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- consensusnoun
Forms
- consensusespluralnoun