Words / C1

di-SENT/dɪˈsent/

Dissent is disagreement with an official opinion or decision: little dissent in the meeting, a dissenting voice. Disagreement is everyday and broader; protest is more public and active; opposition can be organised. Dissent is also a verb. A dissenting judgment is a legal opinion that disagrees with the majority. In speech, disagreement is enough. Dissent can be loyal — it is not automatically rebellion. Do not call a preference for tea dissent.

Meaning

Disagreement with an official opinion or decision.

Examples

• “There was little dissent in the meeting.”
• “There was little dissent in the meeting until the budget line was read aloud.”
• “Two governors recorded their dissent in the minutes and still voted to proceed.”

Good to know

Disagreement with an official line. Also a verb. Everyday: disagreement. Close: protest (more active). Legal: dissenting judgment. Not mere taste.

Near in meaning

disagreement

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