define a consensus

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "define a consensus" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the process of reaching an agreement or common understanding among a group of people. Example: "In our meeting, we need to define a consensus on the project's goals to ensure everyone is on the same page."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

The ultimate take-away value is that America could fix its problems if it could define a consensus about what those problems are.

The New York Times

In a regime characterised by such low levels of regulation, recently termed the "Wild East", numerous companies have chosen to define a consensus level of socially responsible behaviour.

The Guardian

Using the CLIP approach we were able to not only identify potential RNA targets for SF2/ASF but also define a consensus binding motif present in exonic binding sites (Fig. 3).

Plosone

Thus, of the 204 dif sequences that we characterized, 161 were considered to be representative of the different proteobacterial taxa and were therefore used to define a consensus sequence (Figure 1 and Table S2).

Plosone

In analogy to the consensus sequence, we further define a consensus structure.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

We can then define a consensus hit to be a match to an unbranched continuous range of these states.

Bioinformatics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Our characterisation of the binding interface also allowed us to define a consensus-binding site (PRxxPxP) for the CPAP TCP domain in STIL that is conserved across metazoa.

eLife

What defines a "consensus?" How do you define the field of scientists among which a consensus must arise?

The Washington Post

We evaluated 177 oligodendroglial tumor samples and defined a consensus region of deletion of approximately 630 kb.

Duke University

Early studies on relatively few binding sequences defined a consensus sequence TCCNNNGAA of the IFN-γ-activated site (GAS [13]).

Plosone

This experimental design was chosen for its advantages in defining a consensus set of robust candidate biomarkers for CAN suitable for clinical use.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity in group settings, follow "define a consensus" with specific actions. For instance, "Let's define a consensus on project deadlines by listing all priorities and voting on the most feasible dates."

Common error

Avoid using "define a consensus" without specifying the criteria or parameters for achieving that consensus. For example, instead of saying "We need to define a consensus", clarify with "We need to define a consensus by agreeing on at least three key objectives for this quarter."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "define a consensus" functions primarily as a verb phrase. It expresses the action of establishing or clarifying an agreement among a group. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

70%

News & Media

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "define a consensus" is a grammatically correct and usable expression, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, that signifies the action of establishing a mutual agreement. While not exceedingly common, it frequently appears in science and news contexts. To enhance clarity, supplement it with specific steps or parameters for achieving consensus. Alternatives such as "establish a consensus" or "reach a consensus" can be used to add nuance. When using this phrase, ensure you clarify the conditions needed to meet the consensus.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

establish a consensus

This alternative focuses on the action of creating or setting up a consensus.

reach a consensus

This alternative emphasizes the act of arriving at a consensus after discussion or debate.

formulate a consensus

This alternative highlights the process of developing or creating a consensus through careful thought and discussion.

develop a consensus

This alternative suggests a gradual process of building agreement over time.

identify a consensus

This focuses on finding an existing, perhaps unacknowledged, consensus.

determine a consensus

This alternative implies a more formal or structured process of establishing a consensus.

achieve a consensus

This emphasizes the successful attainment of a consensus, often after overcoming obstacles.

build a consensus

This alternative emphasizes the gradual process of constructing a consensus through negotiation and compromise.

articulate a consensus

This emphasizes expressing a pre-existing but perhaps unstated consensus.

construct a consensus

Suggests a deliberate and active process of building agreement.

FAQs

How can I use "define a consensus" in a sentence?

You can use "define a consensus" when you want to express the need to establish a mutual agreement. For example, "The team needs to "define a consensus" on the project's key performance indicators to ensure everyone is aligned."

What are some alternatives to "define a consensus"?

Alternatives include "establish a consensus", "reach a consensus", or "formulate a consensus", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct: "define a consensus" or "defining a consensus"?

"Define a consensus" is generally used as an infinitive or imperative, while "defining a consensus" can be used as a gerund or part of a continuous verb tense. For example, "We must "define a consensus"" versus "The process of "defining a consensus" took several hours."

What's the difference between "define a consensus" and "build a consensus"?

"Define a consensus" implies setting the terms and conditions of the agreement, while "build a consensus" suggests a more gradual and collaborative process of developing that agreement. "Define a consensus" is about establishing what the agreement is, while "build a consensus" is about creating the agreement itself.