'To consult someone' or 'to consult with someone'?

[Mehrgan]

Hi,
Is there any difference in meaning when 'with' is used?

And may I know if there's and more casual verbs we can use, say when someone does so to get some information they need from parents, friends, etc.?

 

[SoothingDave]

"With" should be used.

 

[birdeen's call]

I think I come across the version without "with" more often. I don't think there is a lot of difference in meaning between them usually, but dictionaries seem to say that "consult John" means take advice from John, and "consult with John" means exchange ideas with John.

 

[Mehrgan]

Had a look at the exact definitions in CAD, and it sort of says the same thing I suppose. More likely, when we 'consult with Sb' we are the one who needs advice. Please correct me if I'm wrong. Thanks!

 

[Rover_KE]

I think the reply here answers this question just about perfectly.

Rover