unanimous
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /juːnˈænɪməs/
US
- /juˈnænəməs/
Description
- fully agreed
- in complete harmony
- all in favor
Imagine a group of friends deciding where to go for pizza. If everyone agrees on pepperoni with no disagreement at all, that decision is *unanimous*. It means there is complete agreement, like a group all saying yes together.
The word comes from Latin roots meaning "one mind." You'll often hear it in formal settings like political votes or committee meetings: "The bill passed with a unanimous vote." But it can also describe less formal agreement, like when your whole family decides to have a movie night. It's more than a majority; it's everyone being on the same page.
To be *unanimous* means to be in complete agreement, with everyone holding the same opinion or making the same decision. It signifies perfect unity and harmony among a group of people. For example: "The jury reached a unanimous verdict," meaning all twelve jurors agreed on the outcome of the trial.
You'll often encounter "unanimous" when discussing votes, resolutions, or decisions made by committees, councils, or other groups. A *unanimous decision isn't simply a majority vote; it requires every* member to agree. This emphasizes the strength and completeness of the agreement.
While often used in formal contexts like politics ("The Senate passed the bill by unanimous consent"), it can also describe informal situations where everyone shares the same view. "The children were unanimous in their desire for ice cream" means they all wanted it without exception.
It's important to note that achieving unanimity is often rare, especially in large groups. It requires compromise, open communication, and a willingness to find common ground. When something is unanimous, it carries significant weight because it demonstrates a truly shared belief or intention.
So whether you're describing a legal verdict, a political vote, or a family decision, *unanimous* signifies complete agreement—a rare but powerful state of unity.
Examples
- 1
Board decision
The board made a unanimous decision to cancel the trip.
- 2
Jury verdict
After three hours of discussion, the jury returned a unanimous verdict.
- 3
Shared preference
The staff were unanimous in wanting more time to test the new system.
Pattern
be unanimous in doing X
all agree about doing it
- 4
Expert assessment
The experts were unanimous that the old bridge was no longer safe.
Pattern
be unanimous that ...
all agree that ...
- 5
Vote result
The vote was not unanimous, but only two people opposed the plan.
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- unanimousadjective