beraad

Beraad is a noun used in Dutch and Afrikaans to denote a gathering for discussion and decision, or the process of deliberation itself. It can refer to the assembly itself, such as a council, board, or committee, as well as to the act of consulting and weighing options. In everyday language, phrases like in beraad gaan (to confer) and beraad hou (to hold a deliberation) are common. In formal or political contexts, a beraad may describe a meeting of stakeholders or a body authorized to decide on issues.

In many contexts, beraad also conveys a sense of careful, collective consideration. It can be used to describe the procedures by which decisions are reached, not merely the physical gathering. In traditional or community settings, a beraad might be convened by elders or local leaders to discuss and resolve matters affecting the community.

Etymologically, the term derives from Dutch, reflecting the root related to raad, meaning council or advice, with ber- as a prefixed form indicating an action or process. The Afrikaans usage has inherited and adapted this sense, and the word remains common in both languages for formal and informal deliberation.

Related terms include raad (council) and beraadslaging (deliberation). The concept emphasizes collective discussion, consultation, and decision-making, whether in governance, organizational contexts, or community life.