When combined, `共识 (gòngshí)` literally means “common knowledge” or “shared understanding.” This beautifully captures the idea of a group arriving at the same mental and ideological place.
In Chinese culture, which is heavily influenced by collectivism and the pursuit of harmony (和谐, héxié), `共识` is a highly valued social lubricant. The process of reaching `共识` is often more important than the final decision itself. It ensures that no single person feels ignored and that the group moves forward as a unified whole. A useful comparison is with the Western concept of “majority rule.” In many Western contexts, a 51% vote is enough to make a decision, leaving 49% of the group potentially dissatisfied. The Chinese approach, by contrast, strives for `共识`, where discussion continues until a solution that everyone can genuinely support is found. This avoids direct confrontation, preserves “face” (面子, miànzi) for all involved, and strengthens group relationships. It's less about winning a debate and more about building a collective foundation for future action.
`共识` is a formal and significant word used across various domains.