Groupthink

C1 16+

Pronunciation: /ɡruːpθɪŋk/

Definitions of groupthink

noun a psychological phenomenon that occurs within a group of people in which the desire for harmony or conformity in the group results in an irrational or dysfunctional decision-making outcome

Example Sentences

A1 Groupthink can happen when everyone in a group agrees without thinking for themselves.

A2 In groupthink, people tend to go along with the majority opinion to avoid conflict.

B1 Groupthink can lead to poor decision-making as individuals may suppress their own opinions to fit in with the group.

B2 It is important for leaders to encourage diverse perspectives and avoid groupthink in order to make sound decisions.

C1 Groupthink is a phenomenon where a group of people prioritize harmony and conformity over critical thinking and independent judgment.

C2 To prevent groupthink, it is essential to foster an environment where individuals feel comfortable expressing dissenting opinions and challenging the status quo.

Examples of groupthink in a Sentence

formal The decision-making process was hindered by the presence of groupthink among the board members.

informal We need to avoid groupthink and consider all perspectives before making a decision.

slang Let's not fall into the trap of groupthink and just go along with what everyone else is saying.

figurative Groupthink can be like wearing blinders, preventing us from seeing alternative viewpoints.

Grammatical Forms of groupthink

past tense

groupthought

plural

groupthinks

comparative

more groupthink

superlative

most groupthink

present tense

groupthinks

future tense

will groupthink

perfect tense

have groupthought

continuous tense

is groupthinking

singular

groupthink

positive degree

groupthink

infinitive

to groupthink

gerund

groupthinking

participle

groupthought

Origin and Evolution of groupthink

First Known Use: 1972 year
Language of Origin: English
Story behind the word: The term 'groupthink' was coined by social psychologist Irving Janis in his 1972 book 'Victims of Groupthink'.
Evolution of the word: Originally used to describe a phenomenon where a group of people make irrational or problematic decisions due to the desire for harmony or conformity within the group, 'groupthink' has since evolved to also encompass the concept of group polarization and the negative effects of group dynamics on decision-making.