consultant

word

/kənˈsəɫtənt/
kuhn-SUHL-tuhnt
/kənsˈʌltənt/
kuhn-SUHL-tuhnt

Definition

A consultant is a professional who gives expert advice in a specific area, such as business, medicine, or technology. They are usually hired to solve problems or improve a company's performance.

Usage & Nuances

Most commonly used in business, but also in fields like law, education, and healthcare. 'Consultant' usually implies external, temporary expertise, not a company's employee. In British English, also used for senior doctors in hospitals. Common collocations: 'management consultant', 'IT consultant', 'hiring a consultant'.

Example Sentences

She works as a marketing consultant.

basic

The hospital called a consultant for advice about the patient.

basic

After meeting with the consultant, the team decided to change their strategy.

natural

Becoming a freelance consultant allowed me to choose my own clients.

natural

You should talk to an IT consultant before buying new software.

natural

The company hired a consultant to help solve their problems.

basic