Difference between counsel and council

This is part of the difference between series.

I’ve heard some people confusing the words counsel and council. Here’s the difference between the two.

Counsel

Counsel is a verb that means to give advice, or it can be a noun that refers to that advice.

  • I counselled her to be careful about the hot sauce this restaurant served.
  • Thank you for your thoughtful counsel.

Council

Council, on the other hand, is a noun that refers to a body of people that governs a group or organization.

  • Please submit your written request to the council.
  • Six members of the council will take your side in the court.

Which words do you confuse? Let me know in the comments below.

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By Kim Siever

I am a copywriter and copyeditor. I blog on writing and social media tips mostly, but I sometimes throw in my thoughts about running a small business. Follow me on Twitter at @hotpepper.