Concur vs. Dissent — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Urooj Arif — Updated on May 5, 2024
Concur means to agree or be in harmony with an opinion or decision, while dissent involves holding or expressing opinions that are at variance with those previously or commonly held.
Difference Between Concur and Dissent
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Concur is typically used when individuals or groups reach a common understanding or agreement on an issue, reflecting a harmonious alignment of thoughts or decisions. On the other hand, dissent represents a departure from consensus, often highlighting differing or conflicting views within a group.
To concur might involve openly supporting a decision or opinion, reinforcing unity or agreement in discussions or decisions. Conversely, to dissent involves expressing disagreement or opposition, which can foster debate or encourage the exploration of alternative ideas.
Concurrence can be crucial in environments where uniformity in decision-making is necessary, such as in legal judgments or corporate agreements. Whereas, dissent is vital in democratic processes or creative fields, where diverse viewpoints contribute to innovation and checks on authority.
The act of concurring often leads to quick resolution of matters, as it signals agreement and support. In contrast, dissent can prolong discussions or deliberations as it challenges the prevailing opinions and may require additional justification or persuasion.
While concurring usually strengthens the prevailing viewpoint and can expedite implementation of decisions, dissent plays a critical role in preventing groupthink and ensuring that different perspectives are considered, potentially leading to more robust and well-rounded outcomes.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Agreement with an opinion or decision.
Expression of disagreement or differing opinion.
Primary Function
Reinforces unity and agreement.
Introduces or highlights conflict and difference.
Importance in Settings
Crucial in legal, corporate, and formal decisions.
Essential in democratic, academic, and creative fields.
Impact on Decision-making
Facilitates quick resolution and implementation.
Promotes thorough debate and prevents groupthink.
Outcome
Often accelerates processes.
Can lead to more considered and diverse outcomes.
Compare with Definitions
Concur
To align with a judgment.
He concurred with the judge's ruling on the case.
Dissent
To vote against a proposal.
Two directors dissented in the final decision.
Concur
To agree with an opinion.
The committee members concur with the decision to proceed.
Dissent
To express a contrary belief.
He voiced his dissent during the debate.
Concur
To show support for a plan.
She concurred with the strategic direction proposed.
Dissent
To withhold approval.
She dissented from endorsing the agreement.
Concur
To express agreement formally.
The board concurred unanimously in their vote.
Dissent
To disagree with a popular opinion.
She dissented from the majority view in the meeting.
Concur
To accept a conclusion.
They concur that the project should end.
Dissent
To reject a common viewpoint.
They dissented on the new policy changes.
Concur
To be of the same opinion; agree
Concurred on the issue of preventing crime.
Dissent
Dissent is an opinion, philosophy or sentiment of non-agreement or opposition to a prevailing idea or policy enforced by a government, political party or other entity or individual in a capacity of contextual authority. A dissenting person may be referred to as a dissenter.
Concur
To combine in bringing something about; act together
Factors that concurred to prevent a meeting of the leaders.
Dissent
The holding or expression of opinions at variance with those commonly or officially held
There was no dissent from this view
Concur
To occur at the same time; coincide
Icy sleet that concurred with a forceful wind.
Dissent
Hold or express opinions that are at variance with those commonly or officially held
Two members dissented from the majority
Concur
(Obsolete) To converge; meet.
Dissent
To have or express an opinion different from a prevailing or official position; disagree.
Concur
To grant or concede
"French surgeons ... could only concur that it was a mortal wound" (Susan Dunn).
Dissent
(Law) To reach a conclusion contrary to the majority of the judges deciding a case; render a minority opinion.
Concur
To agree (in action or opinion); to have a common opinion; to coincide; to correspond.
Dissent
Difference of opinion or feeling; disagreement.
Concur
To meet in the same point; to combine or conjoin; to contribute or help towards a common object or effect.
Concurring plans
Concurring lines of thought
Dissent
The refusal to conform to the authority or doctrine of an established church; nonconformity.
Concur
(obsolete) To run together; to meet.
Dissent
(Law) A judicial opinion reaching a conclusion contrary to that reached by the majority of judges deciding a case; a minority opinion. Also called dissenting opinion.
Concur
(rare) To converge.
Dissent
(intransitive) To disagree; to withhold assent. Construed with from (or, formerly, to).
Concur
To run together; to meet.
Anon they fierce encountering both concurredWith grisly looks and faces like their fates.
Dissent
(intransitive) To differ from, especially in opinion, beliefs, etc.
Concur
To meet in the same point; to combine or conjoin; to contribute or help toward a common object or effect.
When outward causes concur.
Dissent
(obsolete) To be different; to have contrary characteristics.
Concur
To unite or agree (in action or opinion); to join; to act jointly; to agree; to coincide; to correspond.
Mr. Burke concurred with Lord Chatham in opinion.
Tories and Whigs had concurred in paying honor to Walker.
This concurs directly with the letter.
Dissent
Disagreement with the ideas, doctrines, decrees, etc. of a political party, government or religion.
Concur
To assent; to consent.
Dissent
An act of disagreeing with, or deviating from, the views and opinions of those holding authority.
Concur
Be in accord; be in agreement;
We agreed on the terms of the settlement
I can't agree with you!
I hold with those who say life is sacred
Both philosophers concord on this point
Dissent
(Anglo-American common law) A separate opinion filed in a case by judges who disagree with the outcome of the majority of the court in that case
Concur
Happen simultaneously;
The two events coincided
Dissent
(sports) A violation that arises when disagreement with an official call is expressed in an inappropriate manner such as foul language, rude gestures, or failure to comply.
Dissent
To differ in opinion; to be of unlike or contrary sentiment; to disagree; - followed by from.
The bill passed . . . without a dissenting voice.
Opinions in which multitudes of men dissent from us.
Dissent
To differ from an established church in regard to doctrines, rites, or government.
Dissent
To differ; to be of a contrary nature.
Dissent
The act of dissenting; difference of opinion; refusal to adopt something proposed; nonagreement, nonconcurrence, or disagreement.
The dissent of no small number [of peers] is frequently recorded.
Dissent
Separation from an established church, especially that of England; nonconformity.
It is the dissidence of dissent and the protestantism of the Protestant religion.
Dissent
Contrariety of nature; diversity in quality.
The dissent of the metals.
Dissent
(law) the difference of one judge's opinion from that of the majority;
He expressed his dissent in a contrary opinion
Dissent
A difference of opinion
Dissent
The act of protesting; a public (often organized) manifestation of dissent
Dissent
Withhold assent;
Several Republicans dissented
Dissent
Express opposition through action or words;
Dissent to the laws of the country
Dissent
Be of different opinions;
I beg to differ!
She disagrees with her husband on many questions
Common Curiosities
What are some synonyms for "concur"?
Some synonyms for "concur" include agree, assent, accord, and align.
How do cultural differences impact the likelihood of concurrence or dissent?
Cultural differences can greatly impact the likelihood of concurrence or dissent, with some cultures valuing harmony and agreement, while others encourage debate and individual opinions.
How can one effectively dissent without causing conflict?
Effectively dissenting without causing conflict involves expressing disagreement respectfully, providing reasoned arguments, and being open to dialogue.
What legal contexts might require concurrence?
Legal contexts that might require concurrence include appellate court decisions, where multiple judges must agree on the outcome of a case.
What is a formal way to express concurrence in a meeting?
A formal way to express concurrence in a meeting is to state, "I concur with the points made" or "I agree with the decision proposed."
Is it necessary to always voice dissent if you disagree?
It's not always necessary to voice dissent if you disagree; the decision depends on the context and the potential impact of the disagreement.
How does concurring with a decision affect a team's dynamics?
Concurring with a decision can strengthen team dynamics by building trust and alignment, fostering a sense of unity and collective purpose.
In what situations is dissent particularly important?
Dissent is particularly important in legislative environments, scientific research, and any context where oversight and critical evaluation are necessary.
What are some synonyms for "dissent"?
Some synonyms for "dissent" include object, protest, oppose, and disagree.
What historical examples demonstrate the power of dissent?
Historical examples include the dissenting opinions in landmark Supreme Court cases, which can influence future legal interpretations and public policy.
Can dissent be seen as a positive in a corporate environment?
Yes, dissent can be seen as a positive in a corporate environment as it encourages diversity of thought and can prevent poor decision-making.
Is there a psychological impact of frequently concurring or dissenting?
Frequently concurring might lead to a lack of self-expression and frustration, whereas frequently dissenting could cause feelings of isolation or antagonism if not managed well.
Can concurring be a strategic move in negotiations?
Yes, concurring can be a strategic move in negotiations, as it might build goodwill and facilitate more favorable compromises from the other side.
How can managers encourage healthy dissent in their teams?
Managers can encourage healthy dissent by creating an open environment where all opinions are valued, ensuring no negative repercussions for dissenting views, and actively soliciting diverse opinions.
What are the risks associated with excessive dissent?
Excessive dissent can lead to decision-making paralysis, reduced cohesion, and potential conflict, impacting organizational effectiveness.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
