having a consensus

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "having a consensus" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing agreement or shared opinions among a group of people. Example: "After much discussion, we are finally having a consensus on the project's direction."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

The June 27 draft is notable for not having a consensus top player, but it is brimming with young potential.

The New York Times - Sports

"We let the process work, and I think this is Year 17 in the N.F.L. for me and this is probably one of the few times I remember in 17 years having a consensus in the building for the No. 1 pick".

The New York Times

Some political philosophers have implied that stability is assured simply by having a consensus on the principle of democracy itself: if everyone agrees on the principle that decisions should be made democratically, then democratic procedures will be stable.

Comparative Migration Studies

Despite not having a consensus on musical direction, the group members agreed that they felt disconnected from the dominant synthpop and new wave music of the time, and they wanted to continue making music that contrasted with these genres.

Wikipedia

However I do know that one of the things we are facing as a country is how on earth--really--we might live together with a modicum of desire, even, to share in looking at evidence and having a consensus instead of a constant warring amongst ourselves.

Huffington Post

MNAR has been reported to be present in both cytoplasm and in the nucleus, having a consensus nuclear localization sequence between amino acids 639 and 643 (9, 25).

American Journal of Physiology - Endocrinology and Metabolism

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

"We must have a consensus.

The Guardian

However, this distributed intrusion- tolerance system has a consensus problem.

The Journal of China Universities of Posts and Telecommunications

What is important is that we have a consensus document," Mr. Ahmad said.

The New York Times

Because we do not have a consensus on who we are or where we are going".

The New York Times

We have a consensus on Skint from both hard right and soft left.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "having a consensus", ensure the context clearly indicates who is in agreement and what they agree on. For example, "The team is having a consensus on the new marketing strategy" is clearer than "We are having a consensus."

Common error

Avoid assuming consensus exists when dissenting opinions are present. Ensure all stakeholders genuinely agree before stating that "having a consensus" has been reached.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "having a consensus" functions as a verb phrase acting as a gerund, often used to describe the state or process of reaching a general agreement. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. Examples show its use in various contexts, from political philosophy to scientific research.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "having a consensus" describes the state of reaching a general agreement among a group. Ludwig AI affirms its correct usage in written English. Its frequency is uncommon, primarily appearing in news and media, as well as scientific contexts. While grammatically sound, it is important to accurately represent genuine agreement and to clearly define who is in agreement and what they agree on. Alternatives such as "reaching an agreement" or "forging a consensus" may be more appropriate depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

forging a consensus

Emphasizes the effort and creation involved in reaching an agreement.

reaching an agreement

Focuses on the act of arriving at a formal agreement, often after negotiation.

arriving at a collective decision

Highlights the group nature of the decision-making process.

achieving unanimity

Emphasizes complete agreement with no dissent.

finding common ground

Highlights the process of discovering shared beliefs or interests.

coming to a mutual understanding

Stresses the shared comprehension of a situation or issue.

developing a shared perspective

Focuses on the evolution of individual viewpoints towards a common outlook.

settling on a shared view

Indicates the process of a group adopting a single perspective.

establishing a unified front

Suggests a deliberate creation of a common position for a specific purpose.

building accord

Implies the gradual development of harmony and agreement.

FAQs

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

You can use "having a consensus" to describe a situation where a group of people have reached an agreement or a shared opinion on a particular topic. For example, "After a long discussion, the committee is now "having a consensus" on the budget allocation."

What are some alternatives to saying "having a consensus"?

Alternatives include "reaching an agreement", "achieving unanimity", or "finding common ground", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to "have a consensus" before making a decision?

While "having a consensus" is often desirable, it's not always necessary or practical. In some situations, a majority vote or a decision by a designated authority may be sufficient or even more efficient.

What does it mean when a group is "having a consensus"?

It means that the group members generally agree on a particular issue, decision, or course of action. This doesn't necessarily mean that everyone is completely satisfied, but rather that they are all willing to support the decision.