Happy 寫:By the way, how about agreement?
"Agreement" is more narrowly focused than "consensus".
"Consensus" is collective mind set on a particular issue. For example: The One-China Policy.
Commonly there are "written agreement" and "oral agreement".
In a business world, "agreement" is often a form of a document, but not "consensus". The word "Consensus" vaguely suggests that there were some length of debate and discussions that leads to the consensus. Agreement can be drafted by solely one side of the party, the other party just have to sign the document and "agree". Consensus does not indicate either parties willingness to resolve their difference. Another word "compromise" slightly suggests their reluctance.