Consulting: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used in professional settings where expert services are provided to solve specific problems, often in business or technical fields.

• Our company needs to hire a consulting firm to improve our marketing strategy.
• She works in IT consulting, helping businesses implement new software systems.

Used in both personal and professional contexts when someone gives recommendations or suggestions based on their knowledge or experience.

• He gave me some great advice on how to handle stress at work.
• If you're new to investing, it's important to seek financial advice.

Frequently used in educational, developmental, or supportive settings where ongoing direction and help are provided.

• Students often need academic guidance to choose the right courses.
• The mentor provided guidance throughout his career development.

Often found in legal contexts or situations requiring deep wisdom or guidance, sometimes used in a more formal or serious tone.

• The lawyer offered counsel to his client before the trial.
• In times of trouble, she sought the counsel of her elders.

Used in a general or business setting when referring to giving expert advice, usually in a professional or organizational context.

• She works in consulting and helps companies improve their operations
• The consulting firm offered strategic advice to the client

Specifically used in health and medical contexts. It refers to recommendations given by a healthcare professional regarding someone's health and treatment.

• For medical advice, you should always consult your doctor
• She gave me some medical advice about managing my condition

Used when referring to a formal meeting with a healthcare professional to discuss a patient's health concerns and receive expert advice.

• I have a medical consultation scheduled next week
• The medical consultation helped in diagnosing his condition accurately

Used when discussing ongoing recommendations and support provided by a healthcare professional. It often refers to continuous or long-term advice rather than a one-time meeting.

• She sought medical guidance for her chronic illness
• The doctor offered medical guidance to help manage his recovery

Typically used in a professional setting where specialized expertise is provided to a business or organization.

• She works for a consulting firm that helps companies implement new technologies
• They hired a consulting expert to improve their workflow

Used when providing recommendations or suggestions, usually in a personal or informal setting.

• I advise you to study harder if you want to pass the exam
• He advised her to take the job offer

Used when providing direction or help in navigating a physical or abstract journey, often in educational or philosophical contexts.

• The teacher guided the students through the complex project
• He needed someone to guide him through the process of setting up his new business

Often used in legal, psychological, or formal contexts, where professional guidance is given. It can also carry a negative connotation when used to imply judgment.

• The lawyer offered her counsel during the difficult case
• She sought the counsel of a therapist to help with her anxiety