consensus
General agreement among a group
Examples
In a meeting
“We reached consensus on the new pricing structure.”
Over coffee
“The consensus is we should order pizza instead of cooking.”
Why this word
agreement
consensus specifically means collective unanimous or general agreement, while agreement can be between just two parties
accord
consensus emphasizes group-wide alignment of opinion, while accord is more formal and can apply to formal treaties or pacts
unity
consensus refers specifically to agreement on a decision or opinion, while unity is broader and refers to general togetherness
Usage tip
Use when describing collective agreement, though not necessarily unanimous
Etymology
Latin 'consensus' from 'consentire' from 'con-' (together) + 'sentire' (feel)
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Related words
evaluate
To assess or judge the value, quality, or significance of something.
discern
To perceive or recognize a subtle difference or hidden truth.
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To postpone something to a later time, or to yield to someone else's judgment.
authorize
To give official permission or approval for something
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Think about a decision or opinion again with the possibility of changing it
reconcile
Make two conflicting things compatible or resolve a disagreement