consider
kuhn-SIHD-uh
Consider (verb) means to think carefully about something before making a decision. Example: “Take your time and consider what you really want to study.”
verb
1
To think carefully about something before making a decision.
"Take your time and consider what you really want to study."
"Please consider all the options before you sign anything."
"She's considering a career change."
2
To regard or judge someone or something as having a particular quality.
"Most people consider this park the nicest place to relax in town."
"I consider myself lucky to have such supportive friends."
"Many consider him the best chef in the city."
3
To show regard or respect for someone's feelings or circumstances.
"He never considers other people when he leaves his bags in the hallway."
"It would be kind to consider how tired the new staff must feel."
"You should consider your neighbours before playing loud music at night."
How to use consider
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo think something over, or to view someone/something in a particular way.
Common pairings
consider the options
consider carefully
all things considered
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- considers
- Past tense
- considered
Fill the gap
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Take your time and _____ what you really want to study.
Etymology
From Middle French considerer, from Latin considerare, originally thought to relate to observing the stars (sidus, "star") before making a decision.
Synonyms
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contemplate
ponder
weigh up
mull over
think over
reflect on
deliberate
evaluate
see
think
take
believe
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for consider
See all rhymes for consider →Frequently asked questions
What does “consider” mean?
The word “consider” means to think carefully about something before making a decision. In plain terms, to think something over, or to view someone/something in a particular way.
How do you pronounce “consider”?
“Consider” is pronounced kuhn-SIHD-uh (/kənˈsɪd.əɹ/ in IPA).
How do you use “consider” in a sentence?
Here is “consider” used in a sentence: “Please consider all the options before you sign anything.”
What part of speech is “consider”?
“Consider” is a verb.
Where does the word “consider” come from?
The word “consider” comes from Latin. From Middle French considerer, from Latin considerare, originally thought to relate to observing the stars (sidus, "star") before making a decision.
Is “consider” a common word?
“Consider” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
How many meanings does “consider” have?
“Consider” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to think carefully about something before making a decision.
What is the difference between consider and contemplate?
Both involve thinking something over, but they differ in depth and purpose. Consider means to think carefully, usually with a decision or judgement in mind — 'consider your options.' Contemplate suggests longer, deeper, more reflective thought, sometimes without any decision at all, as when you contemplate the meaning of life.
What is the opposite of consider?
In the sense of thinking carefully, the opposite of consider is to ignore, dismiss, or overlook — to give something no thought at all. If you consider a suggestion, you weigh it up; if you dismiss it, you reject it without proper thought. Acting rashly or impulsively also contrasts with careful consideration.
What is an example of consider in a sentence?
You might say, 'I'll consider your offer and let you know tomorrow,' meaning you will think it over before deciding. Other examples include 'we must consider the costs' or 'have you considered moving abroad?' In each, consider signals careful thought weighed up before reaching a decision.
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