The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

counsel

IPA:

Dictionary definition of counsel

To provide guidance, advice, or support to someone in order to help them make informed decisions or navigate a challenging situation.
"The lawyer will counsel her client before the court hearing."

Detailed meaning of counsel

When someone counsels another person, they offer insights, recommendations, and suggestions based on their expertise, experience, or professional knowledge. Counseling involves actively listening to the concerns or issues of the individual seeking guidance and providing thoughtful responses and solutions. Counselors often employ active listening skills, empathy, and non-judgmental attitudes to create a safe and supportive environment for their clients. They may provide emotional support, practical advice, or help individuals explore their thoughts and feelings to gain clarity and perspective. Counseling can take place in various settings, such as therapy sessions, educational institutions, or professional environments, with the goal of assisting individuals in achieving personal growth, making informed choices, or overcoming challenges.

Example sentences containing counsel

1. The therapist aims to counsel individuals dealing with anxiety.
2. Parents should counsel their children on the importance of honesty.
3. The principal may counsel the student on appropriate behavior.
4. Financial advisors counsel people on investment strategies.
5. The doctor will counsel the patient on the risks of the surgery.
6. The career coach will counsel the recent graduates on job hunting techniques.

History and etymology of counsel

The verb 'counsel' has its etymological roots in the Old French word 'counseler,' which is derived from the Latin 'consilium.' In Latin, 'consilium' signifies a deliberative assembly, consultation, or plan. Over time, this Latin term evolved to encompass the idea of offering advice or guidance in a thoughtful and deliberative manner. The etymology of 'counsel' eloquently captures its essence as an act of providing wisdom and guidance to someone in need. It highlights the notion of thoughtful deliberation and consultation as a means to assist individuals in making informed decisions or navigating complex situations. 'Counsel' thus embodies the concept of wise and supportive guidance, rooted in a history of consultation and deliberation.

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Further usage examples of counsel

1. Teachers often counsel students on choosing the right courses.
2. The nutritionist will counsel the athletes on maintaining a balanced diet.
3. The priest will counsel the couple on the commitments of marriage.
4. The veteran will counsel the recruits on handling the challenges of military life.
5. The mentor will counsel the young entrepreneur on business development.
6. The human resources manager will counsel the employees on workplace ethics.
7. The rehabilitation center will counsel addicts on rebuilding their lives.
8. The non-profit organization will counsel the community on sustainability practices.
9. The experienced diplomat will counsel the ambassador on international relations.
10. The safety expert will counsel the construction workers on proper equipment usage.
11. The animal behaviorist will counsel the pet owners on training techniques.
12. The pharmacist will counsel the customers on medication usage and side effects.
13. The psychologist will counsel the family on coping with grief.
14. The therapist counseled the patient on coping strategies for managing anxiety.