acquiescence

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "acquiescence" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a silent or passive agreement or consent to something without protest. For example: "She nodded her head in acquiescence, not wanting to cause an argument."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Bahrain stands out as the first example of an Arab country where popular protests were crushed – with the assistance of neighbouring Saudi Arabia and the acquiescence of the US and Britain, whose military, strategic and business interests wed them to a status quo in which the Sunni Al Khalifa dynasty rules over a disenfranchised Shia majority.

The Guardian

There is still not enough evidence to suggest that's the case in general, never mind that it specifically applies here; Target's acquiescence validates what is still an assertion.

The Guardian - Opinion

On the five other occasions, there was a minority government that relied on the acquiescence of other parties to win the key votes.

The Guardian

The buoyancy of the early 1970s had disappeared to make for what Murray once described as "sullen acquiescence".

The Guardian

They had been shamed into acquiescence.

The Guardian - Tech

Even if a deal strengthens Iran's doves, its hawks may either try to sabotage the deal or demand greater latitude to expand their influence abroad as the price of acquiescence.

The Economist

Without billions in American aid (and American acquiescence in army atrocities), the government would pretty surely have gone under".SALVADOR will be the tomb where the reds meet their end!" This was the rallying cry of Arena, El Salvador's long-ruling right-wing party, the last time the left nearly captured the capital.

The Economist

This means securing Arab acquiescence for the deal that was emerging in Israeli-Palestinian negotiations in Taba in January 2001.Like the Saudi plan, this was based on "land for peace".

The Economist

And those who follow, let alone partake in, these negotiations, endlessly locked in an attempt to produce climate agreements which command assent, or at least acquiescence, from every single country here, are used to dealing with absurdities which follow more or less logically.

The Economist

Since Russia matters to America because of its nuclear weapons, its ties with the axis of evil countries and its large energy reserves, America was willing to pay a price for Mr Putin's acquiescence in scrapping the ABM treaty.

The Economist

Opposition and human-rights people could be frightened into acquiescence.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "acquiescence" to describe situations where consent is implied through inaction or silence, rather than explicitly stated. It often suggests a lack of active opposition or protest.

Common error

Avoid using "acquiescence" when describing situations where there is enthusiastic or explicit agreement. "Acquiescence" implies a more passive acceptance, not active endorsement.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "acquiescence" is as a noun. It typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence, denoting the state or act of passively accepting something. Ludwig AI confirms that "acquiescence" is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "acquiescence" is a noun denoting passive agreement or submission, frequently used in news and formal contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, indicating it's a suitable choice when describing situations lacking active opposition. It's crucial to differentiate "acquiescence" from active agreement, as it implies a more passive acceptance. Common alternatives include "assent", "consent", and "tacit agreement", each carrying subtle nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tacit agreement

Emphasizes unspoken or implied agreement rather than explicit consent.

passive consent

Highlights the lack of active opposition, suggesting acceptance without enthusiasm.

silent assent

Focuses on agreement expressed through silence, implying compliance without vocalization.

implicit approval

Suggests that approval is understood or implied, even if not directly stated.

non-resistance

Indicates a lack of opposition or struggle against something.

reluctant acceptance

Conveys acceptance despite reservations or unwillingness.

grudging compliance

Emphasizes obedience carried out unwillingly or resentfully.

submission

Highlights the act of yielding to authority or power.

capitulation

Implies surrender or giving in after resistance.

deference

Focuses on respectful submission or yielding to the judgment of others.

FAQs

How to use "acquiescence" in a sentence?

"Acquiescence" is used to describe a state of passive agreement or submission. For example, "The government's "acquiescence" to the demands of the rebels led to a ceasefire."

What can I say instead of "acquiescence"?

You can use alternatives like "assent", "consent", or "agreement", depending on the context. Each carries a slightly different nuance.

Which is correct, "acquiescence" or "acquiescence in"?

Both are correct, but "acquiescence in" is used when specifying what one is acquiescing to. For example, "acquiescence in the decision" is more specific than just "acquiescence".

What's the difference between "acquiescence" and "compliance"?

"Compliance" implies obedience to a rule or command, while "acquiescence" suggests a more passive acceptance or lack of opposition, even if there's no direct order.