consult
KON-suhlt
Consult (verb) means to seek advice or information from someone or something. Example: “Before signing the contract, we decided to consult a lawyer about the small print.”
verb
1
To seek advice or information from someone or something.
"Before signing the contract, we decided to consult a lawyer about the small print."
"You should consult a doctor before starting any new exercise routine."
"She consulted the map before choosing which trail to take."
2
To work as an independent adviser or expert rather than a regular employee.
"She now consults for several charities and works from home most days."
"Many retired engineers consult part time to share their experience."
"After leaving the firm, he began to consult for smaller startups."
How to use consult
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo ask for advice or check information before making a decision.
Common pairings
consult a doctor
consult a lawyer
consult with colleagues
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Word forms
- Plural
- consults
- Third person singular
- consults
- Past tense
- consulted
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Before signing the contract, we decided to _____ a lawyer about the small print.
Etymology
From Old French consulter, ultimately from Latin consulere, "to deliberate, take counsel."
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “consult” mean?
The word “consult” means to seek advice or information from someone or something. In plain terms, to ask for advice or check information before making a decision.
How do you pronounce “consult”?
“Consult” is pronounced KON-suhlt (/ˈkɑnsʌlt/ in IPA).
How do you use “consult” in a sentence?
Here is “consult” used in a sentence: “You should consult a doctor before starting any new exercise routine.”
What is another word for “consult”?
Words with a similar meaning to “consult” include refer.
What part of speech is “consult”?
“Consult” is a verb.
Where does the word “consult” come from?
The word “consult” comes from Latin. From Old French consulter, ultimately from Latin consulere, "to deliberate, take counsel.".
Is “consult” a common word?
“Consult” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “consult” have?
“Consult” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to seek advice or information from someone or something.
What is the difference between 'consult' and 'advise'?
To consult someone is to go to them for advice or information. To advise someone is to give them advice. The person seeking help consults, while the expert advises, so the two words describe opposite sides of the same exchange.
Do you 'consult someone' or 'consult with someone'?
Both are correct but differ slightly. 'Consult someone' usually means to seek their expert advice, as in 'consult a doctor,' while 'consult with someone' suggests conferring or discussing together as equals, as in 'consult with colleagues before deciding.'
What is the difference between 'consult' and 'ask'?
'Ask' is general, since you can ask anyone almost anything. 'Consult' specifically means to seek advice or information from a knowledgeable person, book, or source. Consulting implies turning to a trusted authority rather than posing a casual question.
