The phrase "takes counsel" is spelled with the letter "a" and the letter "e" representing different vowel sounds. In IPA phonetic transcription, the "a" in "takes" is pronounced as /eɪ/, while the "e" in "counsel" is pronounced as /əl/. Therefore, "takes counsel" is pronounced as /teɪks ˈkaʊnsəl/. In this phrase, the verb "takes" means to receive or seek advice, while "counsel" refers to advice or guidance given by someone more knowledgeable.
Takes counsel is an idiomatic expression that refers to the act of seeking advice or guidance from others before making a decision or taking action. It implies a willingness to listen to the perspectives and opinions of others with the intention of making a more informed choice.
When someone takes counsel, they actively engage in a process of gathering information and perspectives from trusted individuals or experts, aiming to benefit from their knowledge and experience. This can involve seeking advice from friends, family members, mentors, or professionals in a particular field who can provide valuable insights or offer different points of view on the matter at hand.
Taking counsel can be regarded as a prudent and wise approach to decision-making, as it allows individuals to consider a broader range of options, anticipate potential challenges or consequences, and make more informed judgments. By actively seeking counsel, individuals demonstrate humility, openness, and a recognition that collective wisdom often leads to better outcomes than relying solely on personal judgment.
Moreover, taking counsel can also foster collaboration, mutual respect, and effective communication within a group or team, as it encourages the members to engage in thoughtful discussions, share their thoughts, and contribute to the decision-making process. This collaborative approach often leads to well-rounded decisions that consider and accommodate diverse perspectives and experiences while minimizing biases and errors that may arise from limited understanding or viewpoint.
The etymology of the phrase "takes counsel" can be traced back to the Old French word "conseil", which means "advice" or "counsel". This word ultimately derives from the Latin "consilium", with the same meaning. In English, "counsel" refers to seeking or giving advice or guidance, and the phrase "takes counsel" implies the act of seeking advice or considering the opinions or suggestions of others.