Consult

/kənˈsʌlt/

verbIntermediate📊CommonGeneral
2 meanings1 idiom/phrase3 questions

Definitions

2 meanings
1

To seek information or advice from someone or something.

/kənˈsʌlt/

verbneutralIntermediate
General

She consulted a map before starting her hike.

💡 Simply: Imagine you need help figuring something out, like what movie to watch or how to fix your bike. Consulting is like asking a friend who knows a lot about movies or a bike mechanic for their advice! It's all about getting help from someone or something that knows more than you do.

👶 For kids: To ask someone for help or advice.

More Examples

2

I need to consult my notes before the presentation.

3

He consulted a lawyer about the contract.

How It's Used

Medical

"The doctor will consult with a specialist about the patient's condition."

Business

"The company consulted with financial advisors before making the investment."

2

To have a discussion or meeting with someone to get their opinion or advice.

/kənˈsʌlt/

verbneutralIntermediate
Arts

To have a discussion or meeting with someone.

The board members consulted each other before voting.

💡 Simply: Imagine you're planning a party with your friends. Consulting is like having a group meeting where everyone shares their ideas and opinions on the music, decorations, and food, so everyone can have a say and the party is awesome!

👶 For kids: To talk to someone to get their ideas.

More Examples

2

The author consulted with historians while writing the book.

3

We will consult the architects before starting the renovation.

How It's Used

Business

"The team will consult with stakeholders to gather feedback."

Legal

"The lawyer consulted with the client to prepare for the trial."

Tip:Picture a meeting where everyone's opinions are heard, and decisions are made together.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

Idioms & expressions

consult the oracle

To seek guidance or information from a highly respected or authoritative source, often in a formal or ritualistic manner.

"Before making the major investment, the CEO decided to consult the oracle, seeking expert financial advice."

From Latin consultare, meaning 'to deliberate, advise with'.

The word has been used since the 14th century and has consistently referred to seeking advice or discussing something with someone or something.

Memory tip

Think of a consultant giving you the answers you need.

Word Origin

LanguageLatin
Original meaning

"to deliberate, advise with"

consult a doctorconsult an expertconsult with someoneconsult the manualconsult the data

Common misspellings

consulteconsault

Usage

40%Spoken
60%Written