In this article, we will explore the plural form of consensus and provide examples of how it is used in English grammar. We will also look at common mistakes that English learners make when using this word and provide practice exercises and valuable insights into the usage of consensus in English to help you improve your understanding.
Definition and the Plural of Consensus
In discussions about group decisions, consensus is a term you often encounter. It denotes a scenario where there is general agreement among participants, reflecting a combined decision without significant opposition. When you talk about consensus in a meeting or a group, you are referring to a unanimous opinion shared by all involved parties.
For example: After much discussion, the committee finally reached a consensus on the proposed budget allocation.
The word consensus comes from a Latin word meaning “agreement” or “accord”, and like many other nouns with a Latin origin, it has a particular way of forming the plural. Commonly, the plural of consensus is consensuses.
For example: Despite differing opinions, the team eventually arrived at several consensuses on how to proceed with the project.
Here is how you can understand the difference:
- Use consensus when discussing a single case of agreement.
- Use consensuses when referring to multiple instances of agreements, especially in varied contexts or groups.
When to Use Consensus and the Plural of Consensus
Consensus is a term you utilize when referring to a situation where there is a general agreement or a unanimous decision among a group of people. It is commonly used in various settings to indicate that most, if not all, participants are on the same page concerning a particular issue or decision.
For instance:
- In a meeting or a conference, when all members come to a mutual agreement on a proposal, you might say, “We have reached a consensus on the topic.”
- In academic or research communities, consensus may indicate a predominantly accepted theory or finding among scholars.
- While crafting policies or legislation, bodies like parliaments or boards use the term to show collective approval.
Use consensuses when referring to multiple instances of agreements, especially in varied contexts or groups. For example:
- The consensuses reached by the various focus groups provided valuable insights for the marketing team.
Examples of Consensus and the Plural of Consensus in Sentences
Singular form
- The consensus among the committee members was that the project should proceed as planned.
- After much debate, the team finally reached a consensus on the best approach to tackle the problem.
- The consensus of the group favored the proposal put forward by the experienced members.
- It was challenging to achieve a consensus among the stakeholders with varying opinions and interests.
- The board meeting ended with a clear consensus on the new company policy.
Plural form
- The consensuses reached by the various focus groups provided valuable insights for the marketing team.
- After much debate, the committee members arrived at different consensuses on how to approach the issue.
- The researchers presented their findings to the panel and discussed the various consensuses that emerged from their studies.
- Despite initial disagreements, the team eventually arrived at several consensuses on the best course of action.
- The consensuses among the stakeholders helped guide the decision-making process for the project.
Tips for Correct Usage
When using the word consensus, knowing its plural form is essential for correct grammar. The plural of consensus is consensuses. Here are some tips to ensure you use the plural form correctly:
- Understand the Context: Use consensuses when referring to multiple instances of general agreement within different groups or contexts. Example: After reviewing the feedback from various departments, we identified several consensuses about the project.
- Singular vs. Plural: Be mindful of whether you are discussing one agreement or multiple. Consensus is singular, and consensuses is plural.
- Sentence Structure: Ensure that the rest of your sentence reflects the correct number. If consensuses is the subject, the verb and any pronouns must be plural too.
- Be Clear: Always aim for clarity. If using consensuses makes your sentence awkward or confusing, consider rephrasing to maintain the readability of your text. Example: Instead of “The consensuses of the groups were varied,” try “The groups had varied opinions.”
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