WordGarden.ioconsultation
C1Pronunciation
UK
- /kɒnsəltˈeɪʃən/
US
- /ˌkɑnsəlˈteɪʃən/
Meanings
Noun
a discussion or meeting to get advice or information
a formal process of seeking opinions before a decision
the act of looking at a source for information
Beyond the definition
A consultation isn't just any conversation; it's time set aside to seek expert advice or talk through something important with someone knowledgeable. Think of visiting a doctor—that appointment is a consultation where you discuss your health concerns and the doctor offers a professional opinion. It can also be a formal meeting to share information before making a decision, such as a business holding a consultation with a lawyer. You might have a consultation about home renovations, financial planning, or just getting a second opinion on a tricky issue.
Imagine a ship navigating rough waters. Before entering a storm, the captain would hold a consultation with the officers—sharing charts, discussing risks, and planning the route. That's what a consultation is: a careful look at your options, guided by expertise.
A consultation refers to a meeting or discussion held in order to seek advice, share information, or make decisions. It implies a degree of formality and often involves an expert providing guidance to someone who needs it. The word comes from the Latin consultare, meaning "to confer with."
You might have a medical consultation when you visit your doctor to discuss symptoms and treatment options. A legal consultation would involve speaking with a lawyer about a potential case or understanding your rights. Businesses often engage in management consultations to improve efficiency or develop new strategies.
However, "consultation" isn't limited to professional settings. It can also describe a more informal discussion where opinions are exchanged before making a decision. For example, "After a family consultation, we decided to go on vacation to the beach." This implies everyone involved had a chance to voice their thoughts and contribute to the final choice.
The term is often used in political contexts too, referring to public consultations—opportunities for citizens to provide feedback on proposed policies or projects. This demonstrates a commitment to transparency and inclusivity.
So whether it's seeking professional expertise, making important family decisions, or gathering public opinion, a consultation is about thoughtful discussion, informed advice, and collaborative problem-solving. It's a process of sharing knowledge and perspectives to arrive at the best possible outcome.
Examples
- 1
Medical appointment
I booked a consultation with a dentist because my tooth had been hurting for weeks.
- 2
Legal advice
The first consultation is free, so you can ask the lawyer a few basic questions.
- 3
Workplace decision
After consultation with her manager, she agreed to change the schedule.
- Patternconsultation with + person
discussion with someone before making a decision
- 4
School decision
The school made the decision in consultation with parents and teachers.
- Patternin consultation with + people
with advice and input from them
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Public input
The city has opened a public consultation on plans for a new bike lane.
- Patternpublic consultation on + issue/plan
a formal process for getting people's opinions about it
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
- counseling
- briefing
- advisement
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- medical consultation
- initial consultation
- legal consultation
- consultation with
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- consultationnoun
Forms
- consultationspluralnoun