con‧sult S3 W3 AC / kənsʌlt / 动词

1 [不及物和及物动词] to ask for information or advice from someone because it is their job to know something :

If symptoms persist, consult a doctor without delay.

consult somebody about something

An increasing number of people are consulting their accountants about the tax laws.

consult with

I need to consult with my lawyer.

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In everyday English, people usually say ask someone, or see someone, rather than consult someone:

You need to ask your lawyer.

I think you should go and see your doctor.

2 [不及物和及物动词] to discuss something with someone so that you can make a decision together :

I can’t believe you sold the car without consulting me!

consult with

The President consulted with European leaders before taking action.

3 [及物动词] to look for information in a book, map, list etc :

Have you consulted a dictionary?

THESAURUS

consult formal to get advice from someone who is trained in a particular profession, for example a lawyer or a doctor : You should consult your lawyer before exchanging contracts.

see to go to someone and ask them for for their advice, especially a professional person such as a lawyer or doctor. See is the usual word to use in everyday English : I think he needs to see a doctor. | Why don’t you go and see an accountant?

ask sb’s advice to ask someone to tell you what they think you should do in a particular situation : I asked my teacher’s advice when it was time to apply for colleges.

check with somebody to ask someone whether something is correct or a good idea : Check with your doctor before starting on a new exercise program.

turn to somebody to go to someone to ask for help, advice, or sympathy : Many people who were struggling to repay mortgages turned to the Citizens’ Advice Bureau for help.

pick sb’s brains informal to ask someone who knows a lot about something for their ideas about it : The conference was a great place to meet other managers and pick their brains about issues I was also facing.