Counsel vs. Council

A counsel is the advice or guidance given to someone, or a person who is providing legal representation, while a council is group of individuals elected to make decisions.

The words counsel and council are homophones in English, meaning they sound the same but have different meanings and uses, and it's important to distinguish between them to avoid confusion.

What does counsel mean?

Counsel refers to advice, guidance, or recommendations given to someone. It can also refer to a person, such as a lawyer or legal adviser, who provides legal advice or representation.

Example sentences

She sought counsel from her friends before making a big decision.
The lawyer provided counsel to the defendant throughout the trial.
I would counsel you to think carefully before accepting the job offer.

What does council mean?

Council refers to a group of individuals who are elected or appointed to make decisions, particularly in a governmental or administrative context. A council can also refer to a formal assembly or gathering.

Example sentences

The city council voted on the new zoning regulations.
The council of elders met to discuss matters of village governance.
They convened a council of experts to address the environmental issues.

It's crucial to pay attention to the context in which these words are used, as using the wrong one can lead to misunderstandings. "Counsel" deals with advice or individuals providing advice, while "council" pertains to a group of decision-makers or an assembly.

Common idioms/phrases

Idioms and Phrases with "Counsel" (noun):

Seek counsel: To ask for advice or guidance from someone, especially from a knowledgeable or experienced person.
- Example: When faced with a difficult decision, it's wise to seek counsel from a trusted friend or mentor.
Legal counsel: Refers to a lawyer or attorney who provides legal advice and representation.
- Example: He hired legal counsel to help him with the lawsuit.
Counsel of despair: A suggestion or advice that is overly pessimistic or defeatist in nature.
- Example: Ignoring the counsel of despair, they persevered and eventually overcame their challenges.
Counsel of perfection: Refers to advice or a suggestion that is idealistic and difficult to achieve.
- Example: Striving for perfection is often the counsel of perfection; it's okay to make mistakes and learn from them.

Idioms and Phrases with "Council" (noun):

City council: A governing body that makes decisions and regulations for a city or municipality.
- Example: The city council approved a new zoning ordinance for the downtown area.
Council of elders: A group of experienced and respected individuals who provide wisdom and guidance to a community or organization.
- Example: The council of elders meets regularly to discuss important matters affecting the tribe.
Council of war: A meeting or gathering of military leaders and strategists to discuss and plan military operations.
- Example: The generals convened a council of war to devise a strategy for the upcoming battle.
Council chamber: The room or location where a council or governing body meets to conduct its business.
- Example: The council chamber was filled with elected officials and concerned citizens.
Tribal council: A decision-making body within a Native American tribe that addresses various tribal matters.
- Example: The tribal council discussed issues related to land management and cultural preservation.

Practice questions

The city council/counsel approved the new budget unanimously.
Sarah sought legal council/counsel to navigate her divorce proceedings.
The student council/counsel met to discuss ways to improve the school.
The council/counsel of elders provided valuable guidance to the community.
John decided to seek professional council/counsel for his addiction.
The mayor addressed the city council/counsel about the upcoming infrastructure projects.
She received wise council/counsel from her grandmother on handling conflicts.
The town council/counsel is responsible for making decisions about local policies.
The legal council/counsel presented a strong case in court.
The council/counsel members debated the proposed changes to the bylaws.

Answer Key:

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