Consent Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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consent

[kษ™nหˆsษ›nt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

legal

Permission for something to happen or agreement to do something.

Synonyms

agreement, approval, authorization, permission.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
consent

Used when someone is giving their explicit and informed permission, often in a legal or formal setting.

  • She had to sign a consent form before the surgery
  • He asked for her consent before sharing the document
permission

Used when someone is allowed to do something, generally in everyday situations or less formal contexts.

  • Can I have permission to go to the party? He asked for his mother's permission to leave the table
agreement

Refers to a mutual understanding or arrangement between two or more parties, often formalized in writing.

  • They reached an agreement after hours of negotiation
  • The agreement between the companies was beneficial to both sides
approval

Typically used when someone in a position of authority accepts or gives a positive judgment about something.

  • The project will proceed once we get approvals from all departments
  • She showed her approval by nodding enthusiastically
authorization

Used when someone is granted the official power or right to do something, often in a formal or official capacity.

  • Employees need authorization to access the secure area
  • The manager gave his authorization for the purchase

Examples of usage

  • He did not give his consent to the use of his name in the advertisement.
  • She signed the form giving her informed consent for the medical procedure.
  • The company required written consent from all participants before using their personal information.
Context #2 | Verb

formal

To give permission for something to happen or to agree to do something.

Synonyms

agree, approve, authorize, permit.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
consent

This is used when giving formal permission or agreement for something to happen. It often involves a process and is associated with formal or legal settings.

  • She gave her consent to the medical procedure.
  • Parental consent is required for school trips.
agree

This is used when two or more people have the same opinion or make a mutual decision. It is common in everyday conversation and doesn't imply formality or legal implications.

  • We all agree that the plan is a good one.
  • Do you agree with his point of view?
permit

This word implies giving formal permission, often through a policy or regulation, and can also mean any physical document granting permission. It is less formal than 'authorize' but more formal than 'agree'.

  • Smoking is not permitted in this area.
  • He received a permit to build a garage.
approve

This word is used when someone in a position of power or authority officially sanctions or accepts something. It often suggests a higher level of authority or formal evaluation.

  • The manager must approve your request for leave.
  • The committee approved the new policy.
authorize

This is used when someone grants official power or permission to do something. It is formal and often used in legal, official, or business contexts.

  • She is authorized to sign contracts on behalf of the company.
  • The officer authorized the search of the premises.

Examples of usage

  • Before conducting the experiment, the participants must consent to the terms and conditions.
  • She refused to consent to the sale of her property without proper compensation.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Law

  • In legal contexts, consent is crucial for agreements, such as contracts or medical procedures.
  • Consent can be withdrawn at any time, emphasizing the importance of ongoing agreement.
  • Laws regarding consent vary across cultures and legal systems, especially in areas such as relationships and healthcare.

Psychology

  • Psychologists emphasize the importance of consent in relationships, as mutual understanding enhances trust and respect.
  • Studies show that when people communicate their consent clearly, it leads to healthier interactions and reduces conflict.
  • In therapeutic settings, consent is paramount when discussing sensitive topics to ensure comfort and safety.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In many cultures, the concept of consent is deeply tied to respect and personal autonomy, impacting social norms and practices.
  • Different societies have evolving views on consent, particularly concerning issues like marriage or body autonomy.
  • Raising awareness about consent has been a key movement in many countries, aiming to educate about mutual respect.

Media Representation

  • Consent has been a focal point in various media, from movies addressing relationship dynamics to campaigns promoting awareness.
  • Documentaries and series created in recent years have focused on real-life narratives, emphasizing the importance of clear consent.
  • Books and articles often explore the spectrum of consent, discussing its implications in personal and societal contexts.

Origin of 'consent'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'consentire,' meaning 'to feel together,' highlighting the idea of mutual agreement.
  • It has been used in English since the 14th century, originally referring to agreement in emotional or legal contexts.
  • Over time, the meaning expanded to include personal choices and agreements in everyday life.

The word 'consent' originated from the Latin word 'consentire', which means 'to feel together'. In English, it first appeared in the 13th century with the meaning of 'feeling together, agreeing'. Over the centuries, the word evolved to its current usage in legal and formal contexts, signifying permission or agreement.


See also: consensus, consenting.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,635, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.