seek a consensus

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seek a consensus" is correct and usable in written English.
It means to try and bring different points of view together to reach agreement. You can use this phrase in any context where you want to make it clear that you are looking for compromise and agreement. For example: "The committee has been tasked with seeking a consensus between the two sides on how to proceed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

When there are divergences, they seek a consensus.

The New York Times

"All sides should seek a consensus allowing a return to calm," an EU statement said.

The Guardian

Earlier, the prime minister was defended by his chancellor, George Osborne, for trying to seek a consensus.

The Guardian

The House Democratic Caucus held meetings throughout the day to seek a consensus on its version of the legislation.

The New York Times

Venezuela's neighbours, led by Brazil, have recognised Mr Maduro's victory but urged him to seek a consensus with the opposition.

The Economist

More than 100 Christian leaders met last January on a Texas ranch to seek a consensus candidate.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

If the OMFR had any uncertainties or doubts regarding any of the findings, other OMFRs were contacted to seek a consensus-based opinion.

Progress in Orthodontics

You rarely get these qualities when seeking a consensus.

The New Yorker

Aznar had plunged his country into Iraq without seeking a consensus, unlike other Coalition leaders.

The New Yorker

He would, he said, be seeking a consensus with other parties.

The Economist

He seeks a consensus and is more open to hearing other opinions; or, perhaps, he is simply more malleable.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "seek a consensus", ensure that all parties involved are genuinely open to compromise and that there is a clear process for reaching an agreement.

Common error

Don't assume that "seeking a consensus" means everyone will agree completely. A consensus often involves compromise and accepting a solution that is agreeable to most, even if not the first choice of all.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seek a consensus" functions as a verbal phrase, typically used as part of a clause within a sentence. It describes an action, indicating the effort to reach an agreement or common understanding among different parties. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely applicable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "seek a consensus" is a valuable tool for expressing the intention to find common ground and agreement in various situations. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and appropriate for use across multiple registers, including news, science, and formal business settings. When using "seek a consensus", remember that it emphasizes the process of collaboration and compromise rather than the guarantee of complete unanimity. Be mindful to foster an environment where genuine dialogue and flexibility can lead to mutually acceptable outcomes. With alternatives like "strive for agreement" or "find common ground" available, you can tailor your language to best suit the specific context and audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

find common ground

Emphasizes discovering shared interests or beliefs to build an agreement.

strive for agreement

Focuses on the effort made to reach an accord.

pursue a compromise

Highlights the act of making concessions to reach an agreement.

work toward accord

Emphasizes collaborative efforts to achieve harmony.

aim for unanimity

Indicates a goal of achieving complete agreement from everyone involved.

foster agreement

Highlights the act of nurturing or promoting a climate of agreement.

promote concurrence

Focuses on encouraging the alignment of opinions or views.

encourage reconciliation

Suggests bridging differences to restore harmony and agreement.

establish harmony

Focuses on creating a state of agreement and peaceful coexistence.

forge a mutual understanding

Highlights the creation of a shared comprehension and agreement.

FAQs

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

You can use "seek a consensus" to describe the act of trying to find common ground and agreement among different parties. For example, "The committee will "seek a consensus" on the new policy."

What are some alternatives to "seek a consensus"?

Alternatives to "seek a consensus" include phrases like "strive for agreement", "pursue a compromise", or "find common ground depending on the specific context.

Is it always necessary to "seek a consensus"?

While "seeking a consensus" is often desirable, it is not always necessary or practical. In situations requiring swift decisions or where fundamental disagreements exist, alternative decision-making processes may be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "seek a consensus" and "impose a decision"?

"Seek a consensus" implies a collaborative approach aimed at finding common ground, while "impose a decision" suggests a unilateral action where one party dictates the outcome without regard for the opinions of others.