Dissent
Word of the Day
What is Dissent?
noun
The expression or holding of opinions at variance with those commonly or officially held.
Pronunciation
Why This Word?
Chosen to spotlight the essential role of disagreement in shaping progress, protecting rights, and preserving freedom of thought.
Examples of Use
Here's how this word appears in everyday language:
The law was passed despite widespread dissent.
He voiced his dissent in a powerful op-ed that quickly went viral.
Dissent is a cornerstone of any functioning democracy.
Word Origins
Latin dissentire meaning “to differ in sentiment”
Rooted in dis- (apart) + sentire (to feel or think); originally used in theology and philosophy.
First appearance in English: 15th century
Word Family
Related forms of this word:
-
Verb:
She dissented from the majority opinion.
-
Noun:
Throughout history, dissenters have paved the way for reform.
-
Noun:
There was polite disagreement, but no real dissent.
Around the World
How this word appears in other languages:
- Spanish: disenso
- French: dissidence
- German: Meinungsverschiedenheit
- Italian: dissenso
- Portuguese: dissidência
If you Already Know This Word
If you've mastered this word, try these more advanced alternatives:
Protest
“Protest” implies public action; “dissent” can be quiet, internal, or institutional.
Opposition
“Opposition” may be organized or political; “dissent” focuses on ideological or moral disagreement.
Disobedience
“Disobedience” implies breaking rules; “dissent” implies disagreeing with them.
Fun Facts
- The phrase “dissenting opinion” became formally recognized in legal doctrine in the 20th century.
- Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg was known for her powerful dissents, sometimes delivered with her iconic “dissent collar.”
Cultural Usage
- In court, a dissenting opinion is written by a judge who disagrees with the majority ruling.
- Movements for social justice often begin as acts of dissent against established norms.
Common Mistakes
Sometimes confused with “protest”; “dissent” is broader and can be silent, intellectual, or institutional.
Micro Story
Her calm dissent during the board meeting carried more weight than a hundred protests outside.