consultation
B2Formal to neutral
Definition
Meaning
A meeting or discussion in which advice is sought from a professional or expert, or a group of people.
The process of formally discussing something with stakeholders or the public before making a decision; the act of referring to a source (e.g., a book, document) for information.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Primarily a count noun, but can be used as a non-count noun to refer to the activity or process (e.g., 'after much consultation'). It implies a seeking of expert opinion, not just a casual chat.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Minimal. Both use the term identically in professional contexts. The related verb forms ('consult with' vs. 'consult') show more regional variation.
Connotations
In UK public/government contexts, 'public consultation' is a highly formal, often legally required process. In US medical contexts, 'consultation' often implies a secondary, specialist opinion.
Frequency
Slightly higher frequency in UK English, especially in public sector and NHS (National Health Service) contexts.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
consultation with [person/group]consultation on/about [topic]consultation between [party A] and [party B]in consultation withVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “in close consultation with”
- “a consultation of the wise”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
A scheduled meeting with a client or advisor to discuss services, strategy, or a proposal.
Academic
A meeting with a supervisor or tutor to discuss research or work; also, the use of library materials.
Everyday
An appointment with a doctor, lawyer, or other professional for advice.
Technical
In software/UX, gathering user feedback on a design; in medicine, a specialist's review of a case.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- They will consult widely before finalising the plan.
- I need to consult with my colleagues.
American English
- The lawyer consulted her notes before speaking.
- You should consult a physician.
adverb
British English
- The decision was made consultatively.
- They acted after consulting widely.
American English
- The manager operates very consultatively.
- She answered consultively, checking her notes.
adjective
British English
- The consultation period ends next Friday.
- She has a consultative role on the committee.
American English
- We followed the consultation process meticulously.
- He was hired in a consulting capacity.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- I have a doctor's consultation tomorrow.
- The teacher offered a short consultation after class.
- Before choosing a course, I had a consultation with a career advisor.
- The company held a public consultation about the new building.
- The policy was drafted in close consultation with industry experts.
- After a lengthy consultation with his solicitor, he decided to proceed.
- The government's consultation on tax reforms yielded over 10,000 responses.
- The surgeon requested a multidisciplinary consultation to review the complex case.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of CONSULT + ATION. You go to a CONSULTant and have a consultATION.
Conceptual Metaphor
KNOWLEDGE/ADVICE IS A RESOURCE OBTAINED FROM A SOURCE (you get it from a consultation).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid direct translation to 'консультация' for informal advice from a friend. In English, it's more formal/professional.
- Do not confuse with 'conversation' (разговор).
Common Mistakes
- Using 'consultation' for a quick, informal chat (too formal).
- Incorrect preposition: 'consultation of the doctor' instead of 'consultation with the doctor'.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'consultation' LEAST appropriate?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is used widely in legal, business, governmental, and academic contexts to denote a formal advisory meeting or process.
A 'consultation' specifically implies seeking advice or opinion from someone with expertise. A 'meeting' is more general and can be for any purpose.
Yes, when referring to the general process or activity. E.g., 'The decision was made after much consultation.'
'With' for people/organizations (consultation with the board) and 'on' or 'about' for topics (consultation on the proposal).
Collections
Part of a collection
Health and Wellness
B1 · 49 words · Physical and mental health vocabulary.
Public Policy
C1 · 47 words · Language for governance, policy and administration.