consider

[kuhn-sid-er]

verb (used with object)

1. to think carefully about, especially in order to make a decision; contemplate; reflect on.

   He considered the cost before buying the new car.

   Synonyms: weigh, deliberate, ponder

2. to regard as or deem to be.

   I consider the story improbable.

3. to think, believe, or suppose.

   We consider his reply unsatisfactory.

4. to bear in mind; make allowance for.

   The arrest was justified if you consider his disorderly behavior.

5. to pay attention to; regard.

   He considered the man for some time before speaking to him.

6. to regard with respect, thoughtfulness, honor, etc.; esteem.

7. to think about (something that one might do, accept, buy, etc.).

   to consider a job in Guatemala.

8. Obsolete.,  to view attentively; scrutinize.

9. Obsolete.,  to recompense or remunerate.

verb (used without object)

1. to think deliberately or carefully; reflect.

2. to view carefully or thoughtfully.

consider

/ kənˈsɪdə /

verb

1. (also intr) to think carefully about or ponder on (a problem, decision, etc); contemplate

2. (may take a clause as object) to judge, deem, or have as an opinion

   I consider him a fool

3. to have regard for; respect

   consider your mother's feelings

4. to look at; regard

   he considered her face

5. (may take a clause as object) to bear in mind as possible or acceptable

   when buying a car consider this make

6. to describe or discuss

   in this programme we consider the traffic problem

7. (may take a clause as object) to keep in mind and make allowances (for)

   consider his childhood

Other Word Forms

• considerer noun
• preconsider verb (used with object)

Word History and Origins

Origin of consider¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English consideren (from Anglo-French ) from Latin consīderāre “to examine,” equivalent to con- con- + sīder- (stem of sīdus ) “star-group, sky” ( sidereal ) + -āre infinitive suffix

Word History and Origins

Origin of consider¹

C14: from Latin consīderāre to inspect closely, literally: to observe the stars, from sīdus star

Synonym Study

See study.

Example Sentences

There is no way to consider any movie sequel to be completely divorced from previous chapters’ racial optics.

From Salon

Roger’s indignation over gentrification isn’t enough, however, to motivate him to meet a deadline on what he now considers a disingenuous, assigned piece on the “evolving” Brooklyn.

From Los Angeles Times

Some fans have complained about the timing of the postponement announcements for both Coldplay and Post Malone's shows, considering the strikes were announced more than two weeks ago.

From BBC

There was an understanding that he would consider any opportunity tabled by Chelsea as long as it worked for both parties.

From BBC

But I must consider: What was the mysterious confluence that caused my knee to break at the time Gail’s mother died, bringing Gail and me to one table, in one place, at one time?

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• acknowledge 
• contemplate 
• deal with 
• examine 
• favor 
• grant 
• look at www.thesaurus.com
• recognize 
• regard 
• scrutinize 
• see 
• study 

When To Use

What is a basic definition of consider?

Consider means to think carefully about something, to deem one thing as being another, or to believe something. Consider has several other senses as a verb.When you are considering something, you are thinking very hard and very seriously about it, especially when you have to make a decision. The act of considering or something that is considered is called consideration.

• Real-life examples: An investor considers how risky a business is before giving money to it. Hollywood casting agencies consider many different actors and actresses for roles before choosing people. You might consider whether studying for tests will improve your grades (spoiler alert: it will).



• Used in a sentence: I didn’t consider my friend’s peanut allergy when deciding where we should eat lunch. 

Consider also means to regard one thing as being another. For example, modern scientists no longer consider Pluto to be a planet. Often, this sense of consider is based on a person’s opinion or beliefs rather than facts. However, it is possible that this sense of consider is based on science or truth, as with Pluto (sorry, Pluto fans!).

• Real-life examples: The Beatles are considered both a rock band and a pop group by most people. Black is not considered an appropriate color for a wedding dress. Almost everyone considers not saying “please” and “thank you” to be rude behavior.



• Used in a sentence: I don’t consider a hot dog a sandwich. 

Consider also means to think or believe something.

• Used in a sentence: My teacher considered my essay to be too short and made me write it again.