Definition of Console
Quick Meaning of Console
To make someone feel better when they are sad, disappointed, or going through something difficult by showing you care.
Detailed Definition of Console
To comfort someone who is unhappy, disappointed, or suffering; to offer solace and compassion.
How to Pronounce Console
Stress pattern: oO (2-syllable word).
Tip: Stress the second syllable: kun-SOLE. The 'o' in second syllable is long (like in 'go'). For the noun 'console' (device), stress the first syllable: KON-sole.
Watch out: Learners often confuse verb (kun-SOLE) with noun (KON-sole) or stress the first syllable for the verb. Verb: kun-SOLE (second syllable). Noun: KON-sole (first syllable).
Origin and Etymology of Console
From Latin 'consolari' (to comfort). 'Con-' (with) + 'solari' (to ease). Entered English in 15th century meaning to provide comfort.
How to Use Console in a Sentence
Each example shows “console” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“Her friends consoled her after she did not get the job she wanted.”
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“The coach consoled the team following their unexpected defeat in the championship.”
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“Nothing could console him after hearing about his loss.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Console
Common Synonyms for Console
Smart Synonyms for Console — When to Use Each
- comfort
- More general; to provide ease and emotional support
- sympathize
- To show understanding of feelings
- soothe
- To calm or ease emotional pain through gentle
Common Collocations with Console
These phrases pair with “console” in everyday English:
- console someone
- console with comfort
- console a friend
- be consoled by
- console oneself
Common Mistakes When Using Console
Even fluent speakers slip up with “console”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: He consoled about the problem.
- ✓ Correct: He consoled her about the problem. / He consoled her with reassurance.
- Why: 'Console' is transitive; it requires a direct object (the person being comforted). Don't use 'about' alone.
- ✗ Wrong: She was very consoling after the accident.
- ✓ Correct: She was very consoling about the accident. / She tried to console him after the accident.
- Why: 'Consoling' (adjective) describes someone who offers comfort. Use it to describe their manner, not the situation.
- ✗ Wrong: Nothing can console about the loss.
- ✓ Correct: Nothing can console him about the loss.
- Why: 'Console' requires a direct object (the person being comforted). Don't omit the person.
Words Confused With Console
- Console vs Console (noun): The noun 'console' (gaming device or control panel) has different pronunciation and meaning; context clarifies which is intended
Other Forms of Console
- Noun: consolation
- Verb: console
- Adjective: consoling
- Adverb: consolingly
Frequently Asked Questions About Console
What is the meaning of "Console"?
To make someone feel better when they are sad, disappointed, or going through something difficult by showing you care.
How do you pronounce "Console"?
The IPA is /kənˈsoʊl/. Stress the second syllable: kun-SOLE. The 'o' in second syllable is long (like in 'go'). For the noun 'console' (device), stress the first syllable: KON-sole.
What part of speech is "Console"?
"Console" is a verb at B2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Console"?
Common synonyms include comfort, soothe, sympathize with.
How do you use "Console" in a sentence?
For example: "Her friends consoled her after she did not get the job she wanted."