§ Understanding 'Consensus'
The French word consensus (pronounced 'kon-san-soos') is a masculine noun that means 'general agreement among various groups or people.' It's a B2 level word, which means you'll encounter it in discussions about current events, politics, and more formal contexts. It's often used when talking about decisions made after a lot of discussion or negotiation.
- Definition
- General agreement among various groups or people.
§ Examples of 'Consensus' in Sentences
Here are some common ways you'll see consensus used in French:
Il y a un large consensus sur la nécessité de réformer le système. (There is a broad agreement on the need to reform the system.)
Nous devons trouver un consensus avant de prendre une décision finale. (We must find a consensus before making a final decision.)
Le consensus scientifique est clair: le changement climatique est une réalité. (The scientific consensus is clear: climate change is a reality.)
§ How 'Consensus' is Used in French
Consensus is often found in phrases that express the idea of reaching or having an agreement. Here are some common collocations:
- Trouver un consensus: To find a consensus.
- Atteindre un consensus: To reach a consensus.
- Il y a un consensus: There is a consensus.
- Un large consensus: A broad consensus.
- Le consensus général: The general consensus.
You'll often see it in formal discussions, reports, and news articles where the topic involves agreement among different parties, groups, or experts.
§ Similar Words and When to Use 'Consensus' vs. Alternatives
While consensus is fairly straightforward, it's good to know some related words and when to choose consensus over them. Here are a few:
- Accord (agreement): This is a more general term for agreement. You can have an accord between two people on a small matter. Consensus implies a broader, more widespread agreement, often after negotiation among multiple parties.
Nous avons trouvé un accord sur le prix. (We found an agreement on the price.)
Here, 'accord' is fine, but 'consensus' would feel too formal for a simple price agreement.
- Entente (understanding, agreement): Similar to accord, entente can refer to a mutual understanding or agreement. It can also imply a good relationship or cordial agreement.
Il y a une bonne entente entre les voisins. (There is a good understanding/relationship between the neighbors.)
Again, consensus wouldn't fit here because it's about a broader, more formal agreement on a specific issue, not just a general good relationship.
- Unanimité (unanimity): This word means complete agreement, where absolutely everyone agrees. Consensus is a bit softer; it means general agreement, but not necessarily 100% agreement from every single person. There might be minor dissenting voices, but the overall direction is agreed upon.
La décision a été prise à l'unanimité. (The decision was taken unanimously.)
In summary, consensus is a powerful word to describe a collective agreement, particularly in more formal or complex situations. It conveys the idea of a shared viewpoint reached through discussion, making it a valuable addition to your B2 French vocabulary.
自我测试 6 个问题
Il n'y avait pas de ___ sur la question, donc la décision a été reportée.
The sentence indicates a lack of agreement, making 'consensus' the most appropriate word.
Après de longues discussions, un ___ a finalement été atteint entre les partis politiques.
The phrase 'finalement été atteint' suggests that agreement was reached after discussions, so 'consensus' fits best.
Les membres du conseil ont cherché un ___ pour la nouvelle politique environnementale.
Councils typically seek agreement on policies, making 'consensus' the logical choice.
Obtenir un ___ sur des sujets complexes est souvent difficile.
The sentence implies that reaching general agreement on complex topics is challenging, which points to 'consensus'.
Le manque de ___ au sein de l'équipe a ralenti l'avancement du projet.
A lack of general agreement (consensus) would definitely slow down a project's progress.
Il est important d'établir un ___ clair avant de prendre une décision finale.
Establishing general agreement ('consensus') is crucial before making a final decision.
/ 6 correct
Perfect score!
相关内容
这个词在其他语言中
相关表达
更多general词汇
à cause de
A2Because of; on account of (a neutral or negative cause).
à côté
A2Next to; beside.
à côté de
A2Next to, beside.
À droite
A2To the right; on the right side.
À gauche
A2To the left; on the left side.
à la
A2To the (feminine singular), indicates direction or location.
à laquelle
B2To which; at which (feminine singular).
à mesure que
B2As; while; in proportion as.
abrégé
B1An abstract, summary, or abridgment.
absence
A2The state of being away from a place or person.
