Word: Groupthink
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition: Groupthink is a way of making decisions in a group where everyone tries to agree with each other. This can lead to poor decisions because people might not share their own ideas or concerns. Instead of thinking creatively or considering different opinions, they go along with what the group wants.
Usage Instructions: Use "groupthink" when talking about situations in teams, organizations, or any group where decision-making happens. It often has a negative connotation, indicating that the group may not be making the best choices.
Example Sentence: The team fell into groupthink and decided to move forward with the project without considering other, possibly better, ideas.
Advanced Usage: In more complex discussions, "groupthink" can be used to analyze organizational behavior, psychology, or political science. Scholars may study how groupthink affects decision-making in corporations or governments.
Word Variants: - Groupthink (noun) — the main term. - Groupthinker (noun) — a person who tends to conform to the group's decisions.
Different Meaning: While "groupthink" specifically refers to decision-making in groups, it can also imply a lack of critical thinking or dissenting opinions in social or political contexts.
Synonyms: - Conformity - Herd mentality - Consensus thinking - Collective thinking
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs: - There aren’t specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "groupthink," but you might use phrases like "go along with the crowd" or "follow the leader" to express similar ideas.
In summary, "groupthink" describes a situation where a group makes decisions that lack individual input and creativity.