Consider Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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consider

[kənˈsɪdər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

take into account

to think about carefully, especially in order to make a decision. To regard or treat in a particular way. To have a particular opinion about someone or something. To believe that someone is something, or has a particular quality.

Synonyms

contemplate, evaluate, ponder, reflect.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
consider	Used in general situations when you are thinking about something carefully, often before making a decision. She is considering moving to a new city. Before making your decision, consider all the options.
contemplate	Used when you are thinking about something deeply and for a long time, often something complex or serious. He contemplated his future as he stared out the window. She contemplated the meaning of life.
ponder	Used when you are thinking about something carefully, often in a thoughtful or reflective manner. She pondered over the question for a long time before answering. He likes to ponder life's big questions.
reflect	Used when you are thinking deeply about something that has already happened, often in a meditative or nostalgic manner. She reflected on her childhood memories. After the meeting, he took some time to reflect on the feedback.
evaluate	Used in contexts where you are assessing or judging the value, quality, or importance of something. It's important to evaluate the risks before investing. The teacher will evaluate the students' performance.

Examples of usage

We must consider all the options before making a decision.
She is considered one of the best in her field.
I consider it a privilege to work with such talented individuals.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

take into consideration

to take into account when making a decision. To think about something carefully in order to make a decision. To bear in mind.

Synonyms

take into account, take into consideration, take into thought.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
consider	Used in general and formal situations when you think about something carefully before making a decision. Please consider all your options before making a final decision. We need to consider the implications of this policy.
take into account	Used when you need to think about various factors or aspects of a situation before making a decision or forming an opinion. We must take into account the weather conditions when planning the event. The report takes into account all possible outcomes.
take into consideration	Similar to 'take into account,' used in more formal or professional settings when multiple factors need to be evaluated. Please take into consideration the needs of all team members. The judge took into consideration the defendant's background.
take into thought	Used less frequently and often in a more contemplative or reflective context, thinking carefully about something. He took into thought all the advice he had been given. She took into thought the consequences of her actions.

Examples of usage

When planning the project, we need to consider the budget constraints.
It is important to consider the impact of our actions on the environment.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

think about

to give attention to someone or something in order to understand it or them. To spend time considering a possible future action. To consider something to be true or likely based on what you know.

Synonyms

contemplate, deliberate, mull over, ponder.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
consider	Used in formal or informal settings to indicate thinking about something carefully before making a decision or forming an opinion. Please consider my application for the job. I need to consider all the options before I decide.
contemplate	Often carries a deeper sense of reflection, frequently used in more philosophical, spiritual, or serious contexts. She sat quietly, contemplating the meaning of life. He contemplated his next move in the chess game.
mull over	Informal term used to describe taking some time to think about something, often used when the decision is not immediate or requires personal reflection. I’ll need the weekend to mull over your proposal. She mulled over the idea for a while before responding.
ponder	Commonly used in literary or thoughtful contexts, where deep and serious thinking is involved, often about abstract concepts or serious matters. He pondered the mysteries of the universe. She pondered what her life would be like in another city.
deliberate	Typically used in formal contexts where careful and thorough discussion or thought is required before reaching a decision. The jury will deliberate on the evidence presented. We need to deliberate on this matter during our next meeting.

Examples of usage

I need some time to consider your proposal before giving an answer.
Have you considered the consequences of your decision?

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

In philosophical discussions, to consider means examining ideas from multiple perspectives, often leading to deeper understanding.
Renowned philosophers like Socrates prompted others to consider their beliefs critically, stressing the importance of reflection in personal growth.
Ethics often requires consideration of consequences, weighing actions against moral standards.

Psychology

Cognitive processes involved in considering include memory recall and evaluating options, which help in decision-making.
Emotional intelligence is key when considering others' feelings, fostering empathy and strong relationships.
Research shows that considering various viewpoints can enhance problem-solving skills.

Everyday Use

People often consider various factors before making major life choices, like moving cities or changing jobs.
In discussions, saying 'let's consider this' often invites collaboration and open-mindedness.
The act of considering often implies respect for others' opinions, nurturing better conversations.

Culture

'Consider' is frequently used in literature and art to signify reflection and contemplation, often before taking action.
In many cultures, meditation practices encourage individuals to consider their thoughts and feelings deeply.
The phrase 'consider this' has emerged in modern dialogues as a way to introduce new ideas or perspectives.

Origin of 'consider'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Latin 'considerare', meaning 'to look at closely' or 'to contemplate'.
In its original usage, it involved looking at the stars closely, indicating deep thought and reflection.
The prefix 'con-' means 'together', while 'sider' relates to 'stars', showing the word’s roots in careful consideration.

The word 'consider' originated from the Latin word 'considerare' which means 'to examine, observe'. It was first recorded in English in the late 14th century. Over time, the word evolved to encompass the meanings of thinking carefully, taking into account, and regarding something in a particular way. 'Consider' has been widely used in English literature and everyday language to express the act of thoughtful contemplation and evaluation.

Word Frequency Rank

At #673 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.

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670 labor
671 base
672 issues
673 consider
674 legal
675 kept
676 hope
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