consult-v; 3 Senses

Sense Number 1: seek advice or information from a source of special knowledge

Examples:
Visitors are advised to consult an agent for travel arrangements.
If symptoms persist, consult a doctor.
You should consult your dictionary for spelling.
I'm not quite sure how to get there. I'd better consult a map.
I consulted my checkbook before making the purchase.

Mappings:
VerbNet: inquire-37.1.2,meet-36.3-1
FrameNet: NP
PropBank: consult.01
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 1, 2

Sense Number 2: exchange views, confer and discuss before a decision

Examples:
In a meeting, the council consulted about Friday's news bulletin introduction.
Why didn't you consult me about this?
This afternoon, the Prime Minister was consulting with his advisors.
You'd be wise to consult the boss before you make any major changes.

Mappings:
VerbNet: battle-36.4,meet-36.3-1
FrameNet: NP
PropBank: consult.01
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 3

Sense Number 3: provide professional advice, serve as a consultant

Examples:
He is a retired executive that consults for several large companies.
My professor also consults for industry.
I now consult for The New York Times Company at its About.com.

Mappings:
VerbNet: NM
FrameNet: NP
PropBank: NM
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 4