Word

consent

noun C1

/kənˈsɛnt/

Meanings

noun

a clear and voluntary agreement or permission for something to happen

verb

to agree to something or allow it to happen

Definition

Consent is a clear and voluntary agreement to something, especially permission for an action to happen.

Consent means giving permission freely and clearly, without pressure or confusion. It can be expressed in words or shown through unmistakable actions, depending on the situation. Valid consent requires that the person understands what they are agreeing to and is able to choose.

Examples

I cannot share the photos without your consent, even if the request seems harmless.
She asked for consent before recording the meeting, and everyone appreciated the clarity.
They refused to proceed until consent was explicitly given by all participants.
You should not assume consent just because someone stays silent in a tense moment.
The editor did not consent to the changes until the final version matched their guidelines.

Common mistake

Learners often treat consent as implied by silence, but in English it usually implies clear, voluntary agreement.