Vocabulary Spotlight

Acquiescence

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: Passive acceptance or agreement without objection; compliance.

“His silent acquiescence to the new policy suggested he was unwilling to resist.”

Pronunciation

[ak-wee-ES-uhns]

Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words

Synonyms

Acceptance
Consent
Compliance
Yielding
Submission

Antonyms

Rejection
Refusal
Dissent
Objection
Resistance

Related Words

Acquiesce
Compliance
Assent

Word Origin

“Acquiescence” derives from the Latin “acquiescere,” meaning “to find rest in or to be at peace.”

Word Family

Noun: Acquiescence – Passive agreement or acceptance.

Verb: Acquiesce – To comply quietly or without protest.

Mnemonics

Think “A Quiet Acceptance” – Acquiescence is passive acceptance without resistance.

Industry-specific Usage

Law

In legal contexts, acquiescence can imply implied consent when objections are not raised.

Business

In business, acquiescence can involve agreeing to terms without openly disputing them.

Psychology

Acquiescence bias refers to the tendency to agree or accept statements in surveys or studies.

In Context

Acquiescence implies a form of silent agreement or compliance without active participation or resistance. It can be found in legal, business, and personal situations where issues are accepted rather than contested.

Vocabulary Challenges

1. Which is an antonym of “Acquiescence”?

Acceptance
Consent
Rejection
Compliance

‘Rejection’ is correct as it is the opposite of quiet or passive acceptance.

2. Fill in the blank: His _______ to the new rules showed he was unwilling to resist.

rejection
acquiescence
opposition
resistance

‘Acquiescence’ is appropriate as it implies acceptance without active objection.

3. In which context would “acquiescence” be MOST appropriate?

Rejecting an unfair offer
Arguing passionately
Strongly opposing a decision
Accepting new rules without objection

‘Accepting new rules without objection’ is correct as acquiescence implies passive agreement.