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dissent

dih-SENT /dɪˈsɛnt/

nounverbB2GRETOEFLIELTS

Formal

(n) The expression or holding of opinions contrary to those previously, commonly, or officially expressed; (v) To hold or express opinions that are different from those previously, commonly, or officially expressed.

Implies a conscious disagreement, often with an established authority or majority view, and the willingness to voice that disagreement.

The story behind the word. "Dissent" comes from the Latin `dissentire`, which means "to differ in sentiment or opinion." It's a combination of `dis-` (meaning "apart" or "away") and `sentire` (meaning "to feel" or "to think"). So, when you dissent, you are literally "feeling apart" or "thinking differently" from the main group, expressing a separation of views.

Word relationships

disagreement: Broader, less formal term; dissent often implies a more formal or principled opposition.
opposition: Can be more active or organized; dissent can be a single voice.

agreement: Harmony or accordance in opinion or feeling.
consensus: General agreement.

Commonly confused with

dispute: A "dispute" is typically a quarrel or argument, often over facts or ownership; "dissent" is about holding or expressing differing opinions.

Word family

dissenter (noun): A person who dissents.
dissenting (adjective): Expressing disagreement.

Collocations

express dissent
political dissent
public dissent
vocal dissent
crack down on dissent

Example sentences

"The senator's dissent from the party line caused a stir, but he stood firm on his principles." Describing political disagreement.
"Throughout history, artists have used their work to express dissent against oppressive regimes." Historical context of protest.

Memory hook

DISSENT: You DISagree with the SENTiment. Disagree sentiment.

When not to use

Don't use for a simple difference of opinion; it implies a more significant, often principled, opposition to a prevailing view.

Fun facts

The term "dissenter" was historically used in England to refer to Protestants who separated from the Church of England.