consultation
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to consult with
To consult with someone in order to get their opinion, permission, or approval before making a decision or taking action.
Bevor ich Ihnen eine Zusage geben kann, muss ich erst Rücksprache mit meinem Chef halten.
Before I can give you a confirmation, I first have to consult with my boss.
The noun 'Rücksprache' is used almost exclusively in the fixed expression 'Rücksprache halten' (to consult / confer). It means to consult with someone.
Ich kann das nicht allein entscheiden, ich muss erst Rücksprache halten.
I can't decide that on my own; I first have to consult.
The expression is always formed with the preposition 'mit' and the dative: 'Rücksprache mit jemandem halten' (to consult with someone). A common mistake is using the wrong preposition.
Der Mitarbeiter muss vor der Bestellung Rücksprache mit der Abteilungsleiterin halten.
The employee must consult with the department head before placing the order.
The word consists of 'rück-' (back) and 'die Sprache' (language/speech). The literal meaning, 'back-speech', describes well the idea that you get an answer or opinion from someone before acting.
Nach kurzer Rücksprache mit dem Team konnten wir das Problem lösen.
After a brief consultation with the team, we were able to solve the problem.
The expression 'Rücksprache halten' (to consult / confer) is typical of formal and professional contexts, for example in the office, with authorities, or in business life.
Bitte halten Sie bei allen finanziellen Fragen Rücksprache mit der Buchhaltung.
Please consult with accounting on all financial matters.
agreement / arrangement
Absprache and Rücksprache can both refer to coordinating with another person beforehand. With an Absprache, a shared agreement is reached, while with a Rücksprache, the main purpose is to obtain someone’s opinion, permission, or approval. Use the word according to the goal of the conversation.
Vor der Änderung des Arbeitsplans hielt ich mit der Kollegin Rücksprache.
Before changing the work schedule, I consulted with my colleague.
Nach der Absprache mit der Kollegin änderten wir gemeinsam den Arbeitsplan.
After agreeing with our colleague, we jointly changed the work schedule.
