Definition

Noun: A business organization composed of specialists who offer expert, professional guidance to other organizations in exchange for payment. It is a company that sells advice and strategic solutions.

Usage

A "consulting firm" is used to describe a company whose primary service is providing expert analysis and recommendations. It is typically followed by information about its specialty, clients, or actions. - The organization hired a consulting firm to improve its efficiency. - She works for a management consulting firm. - Several consulting firms bid for the government contract.

Examples

• The consulting firm presented its findings on market expansion.
• A major financial consulting firm reviewed the company's merger plans.
• His first job after university was at a well-known strategy consulting firm.

Advanced Usage

• "to retain a consulting firm": This is a formal phrase meaning to hire or engage the services of a consulting firm.
  • The board voted to retain a consulting firm for the audit.
• The term often implies an external, objective perspective brought in to solve specific problems or provide specialized knowledge not available within the client organization.

Variants and Related Words

• Consultancy (n): The profession or activity of providing expert advice. It can also be used synonymously with "consulting firm."
  • He set up his own IT consultancy.
• Consulting company (n): A direct synonym for "consulting firm."
• Advisory firm (n): A very close synonym, often used in financial contexts.

Synonyms

• Advisory firm: Emphasizes the giving of advice.
• Consultancy: Can refer to the business entity itself.
• Professional services firm: A broader category that includes consulting firms, law firms, accounting firms, etc.

Related Phrases

• Management consulting firm: A firm specializing in advising on organizational management and strategy.
• IT consulting firm: A firm specializing in information technology advice and solutions.
• Financial consulting firm: A firm specializing in financial planning, analysis, and strategy.

Noun

1. a firm of experts providing professional advice to an organization for a fee