Zgoda

Zgoda is a Polish noun meaning consent or agreement, the act of giving permission or acceptance for something. It is used for both everyday requests and formal decisions and may describe a state of accord between people or parties.

The word comes from the Polish verb zgodzić się, meaning to agree, and shares roots with related terms that express alignment and acceptance. In linguistic and historical contexts, zgoda is linked to the broader Slavic concept of concord and harmonious relation.

In law and administration, zgoda is a key prerequisite for actions that affect rights or privacy. Common examples include consent to medical treatment, participation in research, and authorization to process personal data. Under data protection rules such as the GDPR, processing of personal data requires a valid zgoda when this basis is used; a proper zgoda must be informed, voluntary, specific, and revocable.

In everyday language, zgoda also denotes general harmony or agreement between parties, such as reaching a consensus or avoiding conflict. Expressions include wyrazić zgodę (to express consent) and brak zgody (lack of consent).

See also: consent, permission, agreement.