Counsel
mediumNeutral toneKOWN-sul
noun
Definition
Advice, especially that given formally; a lawyer or legal advice
Memory hook
COUNSEL: to give advice — a counselor gives counSEL (advice), a council is a group.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“She sought the counsel of her mentor before making the decision.”
“The defendant was represented by experienced legal counsel.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“She sought the ______ of her mentor before making the decision.”
Show answer
counsel
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Counsel is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "advise" or "guide" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "mislead".
Related GRE Words
apprise
To inform or tell someone about something
explicit
Stated clearly and in detail, leaving no room for confusion or doubt
forthright
Direct and outspoken; straightforward and honest
abate
To reduce in amount, degree, or intensity
abiding
Lasting for a long time; enduring and unchanging
abstract
Existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or concrete existence
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