Word
consultative
Phoneticscon·sul·ta·tive, stress on the second syllable
US/kənˈsəɫtətɪv/
UK/kənsˈʌltətˌɪv/
Definition
adj. describing a process where people are asked for their opinions or advice before a final decision is made. It means the person in charge listens to others but still makes the choice themselves.
adj. relating to or providing professional advice or discussion. Often describes a leadership style or organizational process where stakeholders are invited to provide input before a formal decision is finalized.
Examples
“The manager has a consultative approach to leadership.”
“The government launched a consultative document to gather public feedback on the proposed environmental laws.”
“While the final authority rests with the board, they maintain a consultative relationship with the faculty to ensure that academic standards are upheld during administrative transitions.”
Examples
simple
“The manager has a consultative approach to leadership.”
contextual
“The government launched a consultative document to gather public feedback on the proposed environmental laws.”
complex
“While the final authority rests with the board, they maintain a consultative relationship with the faculty to ensure that academic standards are upheld during administrative transitions.”
Usage
Typically used attributively before nouns like 'process', 'approach', or 'status'.
Pitfall
a consultative of experts
a consultation with experts
Consultative is an adjective and cannot be used as a noun; use 'consultation' for the act or 'consultant' for the person.
Word family
VERB
ADJECTIVE
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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