Consent
kun-SENT
/kənˈsɛnt/
Permission for something to happen or agreement to do something.
Implies a voluntary, clear, and informed agreement. In legal and ethical contexts, the absence of consent makes an action unlawful or unethical.
The story behind the word. The word 'consent' comes from the Latin 'consentire,' meaning 'to feel together' or 'to agree.' This is formed from 'con-' (together) and 'sentire' (to feel, to perceive). So, to consent is to 'feel together' with someone on a course of action, indicating a shared understanding and agreement.
Word relationships
- permission: General term for authorization.
- agreement: A state of harmony or accordance in opinion or feeling.
- assent: Official agreement or approval.
- refusal: The act of refusing to do or accept something.
- dissent: The expression or holding of opinions contrary to those previously, officially, or popularly expressed.
Word family
- consensual (adj): Relating to or involving consent.
Collocations
- informed consent
- explicit consent
- mutual consent
- age of consent
- give consent
- without consent
Example sentences
- "Patients must give informed consent before undergoing any medical treatment." Medical procedures.
- "Websites are now required to obtain explicit consent from users before collecting their personal data." Data privacy.
- "The committee gave its consent to the proposed changes after a lengthy discussion." General agreement.
Memory hook
To 'CON-SENT' is to 'SEND' your agreement 'CON' (with) someone, feeling together about a decision. SEND agreement CON
When not to use
Do not use for mere acquiescence or passive acceptance if a clear, active agreement is required. Consent must be freely given, specific, and revocable.
Fun facts
- The legal concept of consent is fundamental in areas like contract law, medical ethics, and criminal law (especially regarding sexual offenses).
- In many jurisdictions, consent must be 'affirmative' or 'enthusiastic,' meaning silence or passivity is not considered consent.
Related words
Explore more words
Agreement, give permission, consensus, concurrence, compromise, assent
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