What is consult? Pronunciation and usage in English

consult means . Learn how to pronounce and use consult through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of consult

consultverb

/ˈkɒnsʌlt/
Definition & pronunciation of consult

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "consult." It can be tricky for some learners! Here's a breakdown:

The most common and accepted pronunciation is:

  • /kənˈzʌlt/

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

  • con: Pronounced like "con" as in "connect" – a short, sharp sound.
  • -sult: This is the tricky part. It's pronounced like “sullt.” Here's how to get it:
    • Start with the "uh" sound (like in "but").
    • Add a quick "l" sound, almost like you're almost saying "lull."
    • End with a "t" sound.

Here's a helpful way to think about it: Imagine you’re saying “con” and then quickly following it with “sullt.”

Resources for Listening:

Tips:

  • Stress: The stress is on the second syllable ("sult").
  • Don't over-elongate: The "sullt" part is relatively quick.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you some example sentences to practice with?

Usage and examples with the word consult in English

Let's break down how to use the word "consult" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different nuances. Here's a breakdown of its meanings and how to use it correctly, along with examples:

1. The Primary Meaning: To Seek Advice

  • Definition: This is the most common usage. "Consult" means to ask someone for advice, information, or an opinion before making a decision. It implies a reasoned and considered approach.
  • Structure: You + consult + someone
  • Examples:
    • “I need to consult a lawyer before signing this contract.” (Seeking legal advice)
    • “The doctor consulted with a specialist about her condition.” (Seeking medical advice)
    • “Before making a big purchase, I always consult with my partner.” (Seeking shared opinion)
    • “She consulted the dictionary to find the correct spelling.” (Seeking information)

2. More Formal – To Examine Carefully

  • Definition: In a more formal context, “consult” can mean to examine something carefully, often a document or a record, to understand it thoroughly.
  • Structure: Consult + something
  • Examples:
    • “The historian consulted the ancient scrolls to unravel the mystery.” (Examining documents)
    • “The committee consulted the data to determine the best course of action.” (Examining data)
    • “He consulted the map before setting off on his journey.” (Examining a map)

3. “Consult with” – Specifically for Meetings & Discussions

  • Definition: "Consult with" is a common and frequently used phrase that emphasizes a meeting or discussion with someone to gather insights.
  • Structure: Consult with + someone
  • Examples:
    • “The CEO consulted with the board of directors about the new strategy.” (A formal meeting)
    • “I consulted with my team to get their input on the design.” (A discussion)

4. "Consultation" - The Noun Form

  • Definition: “Consultation” is the noun form of the word and refers to the act of seeking advice, a meeting for advice, or a document related to advice.
  • Examples:
    • “We held a public consultation on the proposed changes.” (The event of seeking input)
    • “The report provided a detailed consultation of past sales data.” (The report itself)

Key Differences & Synonyms

  • Consult vs. Advise: “Advise” is a simpler term for giving advice (“He advised me to take a break.”). “Consult” suggests a more thoughtful, multi-faceted process – you're gathering opinions and information.
  • Consult vs. Ask: “Ask” is the most basic way to seek information. “Consult” implies a more deliberate and reasoned approach.
  • Consult vs. Seek: “Seek” is a broader term, encompassing seeking advice, information, or support.

Tips for Using “Consult”

  • Formality: "Consult" is generally considered a more formal word than "ask" or "seek."
  • Context is key: Pay attention to the context to determine the precise meaning – is it about seeking advice, examining something, or discussing a plan?
  • Variations: Use “consult with” for meetings and discussions to add clarity.

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of situation are you trying to use "consult" in? (e.g., a professional setting, a personal situation, a specific topic?)

Synonyms for the word consult

Practice with vocabulary consult

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Before making a final decision, you should ______ with a legal expert.
  2. The project manager will ______ the team on the new software implementation schedule.
  3. To confirm the specific regulations, you might need to ______ the official government website.
  4. If you encounter an unfamiliar term in the text, you can always ______ a good academic dictionary.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. When embarking on a new business venture, it is prudent to ______ with experienced entrepreneurs. a) argue b) collaborate c) consult d) disregard

  2. Before finalizing the design, the architect decided to ______ the client's preferences thoroughly. a) ignore b) ascertain c) consult d) dictate

  3. To ensure the accuracy of the historical data, researchers frequently ______ primary documents or expert opinions. a) fabricate b) examine c) consult d) dismiss

  4. Could you please ______ a suitable method for resolving this long-standing operational inefficiency? a) hinder b) propose c) avoid d) suggest

  5. The board needs to ______ the potential impacts of the economic downturn during their next meeting. a) overlook b) address c) discuss d) neglect

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. You should get advice from an expert before making a major financial investment.
  2. The professor suggested that I talk to the career services office about internship opportunities.
  3. It's crucial to seek professional help when dealing with severe mental health issues.

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. consult
  2. advise
  3. consult
  4. consult

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) collaborate, c) consult
  2. b) ascertain
  3. b) examine, c) consult
  4. b) propose, d) suggest
  5. b) address, c) discuss

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. You should consult an expert before making a major financial investment.
  2. The professor advised me to consult the career services office about internship opportunities.
  3. It's crucial to seek professional help when dealing with severe mental health issues.

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