Consensus

Noun

Definition: A general agreement or opinion reached by a group of people.

Synonyms: Agreement, Accord, Harmony

Antonyms: Disagreement, Discord, Dissent

Examples:

After a long discussion, the committee finally reached a consensus on the new policy.
The consensus among the team members was that the project needed more time.

Mnemonics:

"Consensus" sounds like "concentus," which means harmony in Latin.

Etymology:

Origin:

Late 17th century, from Latin 'consensus', from consentire 'feel together, agree'

Historical Usage:

The term "consensus" originated in the late 17th century and has been used to describe collective agreement ever since.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Consensus of opinion"

Explanation:

Refers to a widespread agreement or shared view among a group of people.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing consensus with unanimity, assuming that consensus means everyone agrees completely.

Explanation:

Consensus does not necessarily require everyone to agree entirely; it implies a general agreement among the majority or a substantial portion of a group.