# dissenting

/dɪˈsɛnɪŋ/ (US) · /dɪsˈɛntɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/dissenting
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

holding or expressing a different opinion from the majority or from an official group. You use this when someone disagrees with a popular decision.

For teachers: expressing a different opinion from that held by the majority or an official body. Often used to describe a formal disagreement in a legal or political context.

## Examples

- The judge wrote a dissenting opinion on the case.
- Despite the board's unanimous public stance, several dissenting voices were heard during the private meeting.
- The final report included a dissenting chapter written by the minority members who felt the proposed environmental regulations did not go far enough to protect local wildlife.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun like 'voice', 'opinion', or 'view'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.