dissent
dih-SENT
/dɪˈsent/
The expression or holding of opinions at variance with those previously, commonly, or officially held.
Often implies a principled disagreement, especially in a legal or political context.
The story behind the word. From 'dis-' (apart) and 'sentire' (to feel). It literally means to feel apart from others. It was famously used to describe religious groups who broke away from the Church of England.
Word relationships
- disagreement: Disagreement is general; dissent is specifically against a majority or authority.
- opposition: Opposition is often an organized group; dissent can be an individual's internal belief.
- assent: Assent is formal agreement with a proposal or idea.
- concurrence: Concurrence is happening at the same time and in agreement.
Commonly confused with
- descent: Descent is going down; dissent is disagreeing.
Word family
- dissenter (noun): A person who dissents.
- dissenting (adjective): Expressing disagreement.
Collocations
- voice dissent
- crush dissent
- dissenting opinion
Idioms & expressions
- swim against the tide
- lone voice
Example sentences
- "I dissent." A famous legal quote.
- "In a healthy democracy, there must be room for political dissent." Political climate.
Memory hook
Dissent = Dis-Sent (The feeling is sent in a different direction). Dissent = Disagreeing Sentiments.
When not to use
Do not use for a simple argument about what to eat for dinner; it's more serious.
Fun facts
- Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg was famously known as 'The Great Dissenter' for her powerful minority opinions on the Supreme Court.
Related words
Also appears in
- Communication → Disagreements & Denials
- Leadership → Rebellion & Dissent
- Conflict → Disagreements & Debates
- Arts & Literature → Censorship & Artistic Freedom
- Political Science & Governance → Civil Society & Grassroots Movements
- Religion & World Beliefs → Religious Reform & Secularization
- Media, Journalism & Publishing → Censorship & Freedom of Speech
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