secure a consensus

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "secure a consensus" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the process of obtaining agreement or approval from a group of people on a particular issue or decision. Example: "In order to move forward with the project, we need to secure a consensus among all stakeholders."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

However, unable to secure a consensus among parliamentary forces, he proved incapable of keeping his word.Nepal's political process has descended into feuding, of a dismally familiar sort, at a particularly sensitive time.

The Economist

Both were members of the same Marxist-Leninist party and both failed to secure a consensus between the Maoists, who hold a majority in parliament, and the other parties, who loathe them.A destabilising situationA series of several dozen bomb attacks across Iraq on one day killed at least 89 people and unnerved the government ahead of the withdrawal of American troops later this year.

The Economist

I had the privilege of chairing the meeting; marshalling the debates in order to secure a consensus of opinion from around the table.

BBC

His desire to avoid an exit from the eurozone at almost any cost was confirmed when his first act after the surprising referendum vote was to meet with leaders of the disgraced opposition parties to secure a consensus on the proposition to present a façade of unity as the ground was prepared for the final act of concession.

Huffington Post

The findings of the 35 cases were summarised and a panel meeting was convened to discuss disagreements and to secure a consensus on the final score.

BMC Health Services Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

The sub-committee also secured a consensus on establishing a solidarity fund with tariffs and rates for healthcare, greater market liberalisation for the provision of health insurance, and adding a CHI component to cover individuals working in the informal sector.

BMC Health Services Research

Heath lacked the charisma or popular appeal to secure a lasting consensus, leaving schisms which have divided his party and the country ever since.

The Guardian

But beware: Ukrainians have had two restarts with the Orange Revolution of 2004-5 and Yanukovych's election in 2010, and both leaderships failed to secure a national consensus.

Huffington Post

In retrospect, his decision may have been correct, but at the time, his failure to secure an informed consensus backfired.

The New York Times

While Britain is pushing hard for such a move, it would be difficult to secure an EU consensus of 28 governments for an escalation of sanctions.

The Guardian

But the government has come under increasing pressure from its creditors to secure a broader political consensus to ease the adoption of the tough new measures.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "secure a consensus", ensure that the context clearly indicates who needs to agree and on what specific issue. Providing this clarity will make your writing more precise and effective.

Common error

Avoid using "secure a consensus" when a simple majority is sufficient. This phrase implies a need for widespread agreement, not just a passing vote. Using it incorrectly dilutes its meaning and can mislead your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "secure a consensus" functions as a verb phrase. According to Ludwig AI, it is generally correct. The verb "secure" here takes the meaning of 'obtain' or 'achieve', making the phrase describe the action of obtaining an agreement among a group.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "secure a consensus" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe the act of obtaining agreement from a group. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usefulness. It's most commonly found in news and media, and science. When using this phrase, ensure clarity about who needs to agree and what specific issue is at stake. Alternatives like "achieve agreement" or "build consensus" can be used depending on the nuance you want to convey. Avoid using it when only a simple majority is needed, as it implies a broader agreement. Remember, the key is to ensure your writing is precise and effective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

build consensus

Focuses on the gradual process of establishing agreement.

achieve agreement

Focuses on the outcome of reaching an accord rather than the process of obtaining it.

garner support

Emphasizes the act of collecting or gathering backing from individuals or groups.

gain acceptance

Highlights the act of being acknowledged or approved by a group.

obtain approval

Highlights the formal process of getting permission or authorization.

win backing

Implies persuading others to support a cause or proposal.

forge unity

Suggests creating a sense of togetherness and shared purpose.

reach a unanimous decision

Highlights the act of reaching a decision where all parties are in agreement.

find common ground

Focuses on identifying shared interests or beliefs to reach an agreement.

get everyone on board

An informal way of saying that everyone is in agreement and willing to participate.

FAQs

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

You can use "secure a consensus" when you want to express the idea of gaining agreement or approval from a group of people. For example: "The manager worked hard to secure a consensus among the team members before implementing the new policy."

What are some alternatives to "secure a consensus"?

Alternatives to "secure a consensus" include "achieve agreement", "build consensus", or "obtain approval". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "secure a consensus" or "reach a consensus"?

Both "secure a consensus" and "reach a consensus" are correct and usable. "Secure a consensus" emphasizes the effort to obtain the agreement, while "reach a consensus" focuses on the final result of achieving it.

What does it mean to "secure a consensus" in a negotiation?

In a negotiation, to "secure a consensus" means to ensure that all parties involved agree on the terms and conditions, and are willing to support the outcome. This typically requires open communication, compromise, and addressing everyone's concerns.