consenso
nounCEFR B2
What does “consenso” mean in English?
consensus
consensus (broad agreement among a group; alcanzar un consenso; por consenso)
Example sentences
Existe un amplio consenso científico sobre los efectos del plástico en los océanos, aunque aún quedan aspectos sin resolver.
There is broad scientific consensus on the effects of plastic on the oceans, although some aspects remain unresolved.
La medida fue aprobada por consenso, sin necesidad de votación formal.
The measure was approved by consensus, without the need for a formal vote.
Romper el consenso no es siempre negativo: a veces hace falta una voz disidente para avanzar.
Breaking consensus is not always negative: sometimes a dissenting voice is needed to move forward.
How to use it
El consenso means 'consensus' — broad agreement among a group, especially in political, scientific, or social discourse. Key collocations: alcanzar/generar/romper el consenso, un amplio consenso, el consenso científico, el consenso social, por consenso (by consensus). At B2 it is essential in journalistic and academic writing. Distinguish from unanimidad (unanimity — every single voice agrees, stronger than consensus) and acuerdo (agreement — can be between just two parties).
Common mistake
Consenso (broad agreement, not necessarily unanimous) vs unanimidad (unanimous — every single party agrees) vs acuerdo (agreement — bilateral or multilateral). The compound consenso social refers to social cohesion around shared values, not just a political vote. Por consenso (without a vote) ≠ por unanimidad (by unanimous vote). The verb construir consenso (to build consensus) is productive in political and organisational discourse.