Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
an informed consent
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "an informed consent" is not correct in standard written English.
The correct expression is "informed consent" without the article "an." Example: "Before the procedure, the doctor explained the risks and benefits to ensure the patient provided informed consent."
⚠ May contain grammatical issues
Science
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
All included subjects signed an informed consent.
Science & Research
All subjects signed an informed consent form.
Science & Research
All volunteers signed an informed consent document.
Science & Research
All patients signed an informed consent form.
Before participating, participants signed an informed consent.
Participants signed an informed consent form.
Science
Respondents had to sign an informed consent.
Science
Each volunteer signed an informed consent form.
Science
They also signed an informed consent form.
Science
All subjects included signed an informed consent.
Science
All participants signed an informed consent.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When writing about informed consent, omit the article "an". Use "informed consent" directly.
Common error
Avoid using the article "an" before "informed consent". It's grammatically incorrect; the correct term is "informed consent".
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
3.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "an informed consent" is grammatically incorrect and functions as a noun phrase. It should be used without the article "an", as shown by Ludwig which marks it as incorrect and suggests using "informed consent" instead.
Frequent in
Science
100%
Less common in
News & Media
0%
Formal & Business
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
While "an informed consent" appears frequently in various texts, Ludwig AI marks it as grammatically incorrect. The correct form is "informed consent" without the article "an". This term is primarily used in science and academic settings to describe the process of obtaining permission after fully disclosing relevant information. Remember to avoid using the article "an" to ensure grammatical accuracy and maintain clarity in your writing. Alternative phrases such as "voluntary agreement" or "documented consent" can be used to convey similar meanings, but the standard and grammatically correct term remains "informed consent".
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
informed consent
Omission of the article "an".
a signed consent form
Focuses on the physical document and act of signing.
voluntary agreement
Highlights the voluntary nature of the consent.
documented consent
Emphasizes the importance of having consent in written record.
consent obtained
A concise way of stating that consent was acquired.
consent given
Focuses on the act of providing consent.
agreement to participate
Highlights the agreement to take part in a study or procedure.
authorization for treatment
Specifically applies to medical contexts, emphasizing permission for treatment.
permission granted
A more formal way to indicate that permission was given.
approval to proceed
Indicates that all necessary approvals, including consent, have been obtained.
FAQs
Is it grammatically correct to say "an informed consent"?
No, the correct phrase is "informed consent" without the article "an". The term functions as a noun phrase.
What is the meaning of "informed consent"?
"Informed consent" refers to the process by which a patient or research participant agrees to undergo a medical procedure or participate in a study after being fully informed about the risks, benefits, and alternatives. It emphasizes autonomy and voluntary decision-making.
How do I properly document informed consent?
Proper documentation typically involves a "consent form" signed by the patient or participant, indicating they understand the information provided and agree to proceed. The documentation should also include the date and time of the consent.
What are some alternative ways to express the idea of "informed consent" in a sentence?
Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "voluntary agreement", "documented consent", or "consent obtained" to convey a similar meaning.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
3.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested