unanimous
yoo-NAN-uh-muhs
/juˈnænɪməs/
Fully in agreement; having the agreement and consent of all.
Unanimous implies that every single person in a group agrees, leaving no dissent or opposition.
The story behind the word. The word 'unanimous' comes from the Latin `unanimus`, a combination of `unus` ('one') and `animus` ('mind' or 'spirit'). So, when a decision is unanimous, it means everyone involved is 'of one mind' or 'of one spirit.' It perfectly describes a situation where there is complete and total agreement among all members of a group.
Word relationships
- agreed: More general, doesn't necessarily imply everyone.
- undivided: Refers to a single, unified opinion or support.
- harmonious: Implies a state of agreement and peace, less about a specific decision.
- divided: Split in opinion.
- dissenting: Expressing disagreement.
- split: Referring to a decision where opinions are divided.
Commonly confused with
- consensus: Unanimous means everyone agrees; consensus means general agreement, where some might still have reservations but can live with the decision.
Word family
- unanimously (adverb): with complete agreement from everyone
- unanimity (noun): agreement by all people involved; consensus
Collocations
- unanimous decision
- unanimous vote
- unanimous agreement
- unanimous support
Example sentences
- "The board's decision to appoint the new CEO was `unanimous`, reflecting strong confidence in her leadership." The jury reached a unanimous verdict after only two hours of deliberation.
- "Despite initial disagreements, the team eventually reached a `unanimous` decision on the marketing budget." The motion passed with a unanimous vote.
Memory hook
Think of 'UNI' (one) 'ANIMALS' all agreeing on one thing. One mind
When not to use
Do not use 'unanimous' if even one person disagrees or abstains; 'consensus' or 'overwhelming majority' would be more accurate.
Fun facts
- In many formal voting systems, a unanimous vote is often seen as a sign of strong unity and support, though it can sometimes mask underlying pressure to conform.
- The concept of unanimity is crucial in certain legal contexts, such as jury verdicts in some jurisdictions.
Related words
Explore more words
unison, consensus, unequivocal, concerted, unilateral, unite
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