Introduction ( meaning )
Council meaning
A council refers to a group of people who come together to make decisions or give advice on a particular issue. It can also refer to an official body of people in a governmental, organizational, or community setting.
Counsel meaning
Counsel can refer to advice or guidance, especially in a legal context, or to the person who provides such advice, such as a lawyer. As a verb, it means to give advice or guidance to someone.
Origin of counsel and council
Both words come from the Latin word “consilium,” which means “a plan” or “a decision,” and both involve the idea of providing guidance or making decisions.
Council synonyms and antonyms
| Council synonyms | Council antonyms |
|---|---|
| Panel | Individual |
| Board | Solitude |
| Congress | Autocracy |
| Committee | Dictatorship |
| Cabinet | Monarchy |
| Assembly |
Counsel synonyms and antonyms
| Counsel synonyms | Counsel antonyms |
|---|---|
| Advice | Confusion |
| Recommendation | Opposition |
| Consultation | Neglect |
| Insight | Indifference |
| Guidance | |
| Direction |
Examples of council
- The city council voted to approve the new park development project, which will provide more recreational spaces for the community.
- Student council organized a charity event to raise funds for a local animal shelter.
- Council held a public meeting to discuss the proposed changes to the zoning laws.
- Company established an advisory council to provide guidance on its environmental policies and sustainability efforts.
Example of counsel
- Before making any decisions, she sought counsel from a lawyer to understand her rights.
- The therapist provided valuable counsel to the couple during their marriage counseling sessions.
- He asked for counsel from his mentor on how to approach the challenging project.
- Priest gave counsel to the congregation, offering spiritual guidance during difficult times.
Short assessment
Fill in the blanks with the correct word (Council or Counsel):
a) The city’s ___________ will meet next week to discuss new housing regulations.
b) She sought legal ___________ before signing the contract.
c) President called a special ___________ to discuss the national security issues.
d) He always listens to the wise ___________ of his mentor.
e) Student ___________ is organizing a charity drive for the local shelter.
Answer key
( a) Council, b) Counsel, c) Council, d) Counsel, e) Council )
Conclusion
While both terms may sound similar, their meanings and applications are vastly different one relating to a governing body and the other to advice or legal assistance. Proper usage of these words not only enhances clarity in writing but also reflects a strong grasp of the English language. By familiarizing yourself with these nuances, you can avoid common mistakes and convey your message more accurately. So the next time you find yourself choosing between council and counsel, remember this guide and make your writing shine.
FAQs
What do you mean by counseling?
Counselling is a form of ‘talk therapy’. It is a process where an individual, couple or family meet with a trained professional counsellor to talk about issues and problems that they are facing in their lives. Professional counselling is confidential and non-judgmental.
What is counselor vs counsellor?
Counselor/counsellor is a noun that means “someone who gives advice” or, in American English, “a legal representative.” The spellings are not interchangeable. In American English, the correct spelling is counselor, and in British English, it is counsellor.
