consensus
noun
John Hersey
Is the phrase consensus of opinion redundant?: Usage Guide
The phrase consensus of opinion, which is not actually redundant (see sense 1a; the sense that takes the phrase is slightly older), has been so often claimed to be a redundancy that many writers avoid it. You are safe in using consensus alone when it is clear you mean consensus of opinion, and most writers in fact do so.
Synonyms
Examples of consensus in a Sentence
Antonio Ramirez, Commonweal, 12 Sept. 1997
Despite years of debate over the best wine to serve at Thanksgiving, no real consensus has emerged.
—Harvey Steiman, Wine Spectator, 30 Nov. 1995
Beyond the general goal of sustainability, there was little consensus at the conference on how to get from here to there.
—Constance Holden, Science, 6 July 1990
… it is the consensus of opinion that the Iceni in their geographic isolation remained 'Celtic' …
—Antonia Fraser, The Warrior Queens, 1988
Everyone on the council seems to understand the need for consensus.
There is a lack of consensus among the citizens.
The decision was made by consensus.
Subramaniam Vincent, Forbes, 3 Oct. 2024
Underneath their discussions about democracy, rationalism, and religion lies one consensus: Women are subordinate and subhuman.
—Bekah Waalkes, The Atlantic, 3 Oct. 2024
The point guard out of Marietta, Ga., was a consensus top-five player in the class of 2025.
—Daniel Libit, Sportico.com, 3 Oct. 2024
Industry consensus is closer to $55 million-$60 million, but some sources suggest not even a $50 million opening is guaranteed.
—Tom Brueggemann, IndieWire, 3 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for consensus 
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'consensus.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
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Cite this Entry
“Consensus.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/consensus. Accessed 8 Oct. 2024.
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consensus
noun
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