Consideration: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'consideration' when you're talking about careful thought or attention given to something before making a decision.

• After much consideration, she decided to accept the job offer.
• Please give my proposal some serious consideration before making your final decision.

Use 'reflection' when talking about thoughtful consideration or review, often of past events or experiences.

• After some reflection, he realized he had made a mistake.
• Her reflection on the past year led to many insights about her own growth.

Use 'contemplation' when you're referring to deep and prolonged thinking, often in a calm and reflective manner.

• He sat by the lake in quiet contemplation.
• Her daily meditation practice involves contemplation of life's big questions.

Use 'deliberation' when emphasizing careful and formal discussion or consideration, often used in decision-making contexts like meetings or legal settings.

• The jury's long deliberation resulted in a unanimous verdict.
• The board's deliberation took several hours before they reached a consensus.

Use 'thought' when referring to any idea or consideration in general; it is a more general term that can include any instance of thinking.

• She had a sudden thought and decided to call her friend.
• His thoughts were focused on the impending meeting.

Used when thinking about something carefully, often before making a decision, or showing thoughtfulness towards someone.

• Thank you for your consideration of my application.
• Please take my proposal into consideration.

This term is general and refers to the action or process of paying someone or something.

• The payment is due at the end of the month.
• She made a payment towards her credit card debt.

Refers to money or another benefit given as a recompense for loss, injury, or suffering.

• She received compensation for the damage to her car.
• The company offers compensation for travel expenses.

Formal term used to describe money paid for work or a service.

• The job offers a generous remuneration package.
• His remuneration reflects his high level of expertise.

Usually used to refer to something given in recognition of service, effort, or achievement; can have positive or negative connotations depending on context.

• She received a reward for her honesty in returning the lost wallet.
• The company offers a reward for information on the theft.

Often used to describe a fixed charge for a professional service or for entry to a place.

• The lawyer charges a high fee for their services.
• There is an admission fee to enter the museum.

Use this word when you want to talk about careful thought or having regard for others. It is common in both professional and personal settings.

• Thank you for your consideration in this matter.
• Her consideration for other people's needs is admirable.

Respect involves admiration for someone because of their abilities, qualities, or achievements. It is often used in professional, academic, and personal situations.

• He has earned the respect of his peers.
• Show some respect for the rules.

Thoughtfulness suggests careful consideration for the feelings and needs of others, and is often associated with meaningful actions or gestures.

• His thoughtfulness was apparent when he brought flowers to cheer her up.
• Thank you for your thoughtfulness in planning the event.

This word is best used to describe polite and respectful behavior that follows social norms, often in interactions with others. It is commonly used in formal or semi-formal contexts.

• Please extend the courtesy of a reply.
• He showed great courtesy to the guests.

Kindness refers to being friendly, generous, and considerate in a warm and compassionate way. It is commonly used in everyday, personal interactions.

• Her kindness towards strangers is inspiring.
• A little kindness can go a long way.

This word is similar to 'consideration' but focuses more on being mindful and thoughtful towards others. It is often used to describe people's behavior.

• His considerateness was evident when he offered his seat to the elderly woman.
• We appreciate your considerateness in notifying us of your absence.