counsel

/ˈkaʊn.səl/
advice or guidance

She sought counsel from her mentor before making a career decision.

She asked for advice from her mentor before deciding on her career.


formal

Advice or guidance, especially from someone with expertise or experience.

The lawyer provided counsel on the legal implications of the contract.

The lawyer gave advice on the legal consequences of the contract.

Often used in formal or professional contexts, such as legal or business settings.

formal

A group of advisors or a body that provides advice.

The president consulted with his counsel before making a policy decision.

The president sought advice from his advisors before deciding on the policy.

Can refer to a formal advisory group, such as a legal or governmental counsel.

Collocations

seek counselto ask for advicelegal counsela lawyer or legal advisorcounsel of wisdomwise advice

Related Phrases

take counselphrase
to seek advice
counsel of perfectionphrase
advice that is impossible to follow perfectly

Pro Tip

Formal vs. Informal Use

Use 'counsel' in formal or professional contexts. For everyday advice, 'advice' is more common.

Gold Rule

Legal Context

In legal contexts, 'counsel' often refers to a lawyer or legal advisor.

Word Origin

From Middle English 'counsel,' from Old French 'conseil,' from Latin 'consilium,' meaning 'plan, advice, decision.'

Usage Notes

Can be used as a noun (advice) or a verb (to advise). The verb form is less common and often formal.

Word Breakdown

counsel
advice or guidance
root
English Dictionary