Council vs Counsel | Definition, Difference & Examples
Counsel and council are homonyms (words that are pronounced the same), but they mean different things.
- Council is a noun that describes a legislative or advisory body.
- Counsel can be used as a noun to refer to a lawyer or to mean “advice.” It can also be used as a verb meaning “advise.”
| Examples: Council in a sentence | Examples: Counsel in a sentence |
|---|---|
| The city council gathered to discuss the new zoning regulations. | I sought legal counsel to help me navigate through my divorce proceedings. |
| The council members voted unanimously in favor of the proposed budget. | The defendant’s counsel presented a compelling case in court. |
| I contacted the neighborhood council to address the issue of stray animals in our area. | He offered wise counsel to his friend who was struggling with a difficult career choice. |
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What does council mean?
The collective noun council is used to refer to a legislative or advisory body.
Local business leaders were invited to address the council and share their insights.
The council members debated the proposed tax changes during a lengthy session.
“Council” is often used as an attributive noun (a noun that functions like an adjective) to modify another noun (e.g., “member”). It can also be used after an attributive noun (e.g., “student council”).
What does counsel mean?
Counsel can be used as a verb to describe the act of giving advice to someone.
The attorney will counsel the client on the best course of action.
It’s crucial for parents to counsel their children about online safety.
Counsel can also be used as a noun to refer to a lawyer or to mean “formal advice.”
The counselor offers emotional counsel to students dealing with stress and anxiety.
Seeking the counsel of a financial advisor can help you make investment decisions.
Council vs counsel quiz
Test your knowledge of the difference between “council” and “counsel” by filling in either “council” or a form of “counsel” in every sentence.
Frequently asked questions about council vs counsel
- What is a synonym for counsel?
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Synonyms or near synonyms for counsel include:
- To direct / direction
- To guide / guidance
- To instruct / instruction
The first options are synonyms for the verb “counsel,” and the second options are synonyms for the noun “counsel.”
You can find other synonyms for “counsel” with QuillBot’s Paraphraser.
- What is a synonym for council?
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Council has several synonyms and near synonyms, including:
- Board
- Committee
- Panel
- Assembly
- Commission
You can find other synonyms for “council” with QuillBot’s Paraphraser.
