acquiescence
/ˌæk.wiˈes.əns/ IELTSAcademic
noun
Acquiescence is quiet acceptance of something, often without protest. It can suggest agreement that is passive, reluctant, or unwilling.
- Her acquiescence surprised everyone.
- He gave silent acquiescence to the plan.
- Their acquiescence felt more like surrender.
Adinary Nuance
Acquiescence is not the same as agreement. Agreement sounds active and willing, while acquiescence often means you accept something without fighting it. It is also softer than obedience, because the person may not fully approve. Writers choose it when the acceptance feels quiet, reluctant, or passive.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- Sự acquiescence
- Spanish
- Aquiescencia
- Chinese
- 默许
- Japanese
- 黙認
- Korean
- 묵인
Etymology
Acquiescence comes from Latin acquiescere, meaning “to rest in” or “to become quiet.” It entered English in the 1600s.
Common phrases
silent acquiescenceacquiescence to pressuretacit acquiescence
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is acquiescence formal or informal?
- It is fairly formal and common in writing, reports, and academic English.
- What is the difference between acquiescence and agreement?
- Agreement means you support something. Acquiescence means you accept it, often without enthusiasm.
- Can I use acquiescence in daily conversation?
- Yes, but it sounds formal. In speech, people often say “accepted it” or “went along with it.”
- Is acquiescence usually positive?
- Not always. It can sound neutral, but often it suggests reluctance or lack of resistance.