consider
- 01 A2 Elementary
to think about something seriously before you make a decision.
to think about something with care or caution, often in order to make a decision.
Simple“Please take some time to consider our offer before you say yes.”
In context“The board of directors will consider the proposal during their next meeting, weighing the potential risks against the projected profits.”
UsageOften followed by a noun phrase or a 'whether' clause.
Synonyms - 02 B1 Intermediate
to believe that someone or something has a particular quality.
to regard or judge someone or something as being a certain way.
Simple“Many people consider her the best doctor in the city.”
In context“Historians generally consider the signing of this treaty to be the definitive end of the conflict in the region.”
UsageTypically follows the pattern: consider + object + adjective/noun.
PitfallI consider him as a friend. I consider him a friend.When 'consider' means 'to have an opinion', you usually do not need the word 'as' before the description.
- 03 B1 Intermediate
to think about a possible plan or action.
to weigh a possible course of action as a potential choice.
Simple“We are considering moving to a bigger house next year.”
In context“The government is considering implementing stricter environmental regulations to combat the rising levels of urban pollution.”
UsageTakes the -ing form of the following verb.
PitfallI am considering to buy a new car. I am considering buying a new car.When 'consider' is followed by another action, use the -ing form, not the infinitive with 'to'.
Synonyms - 04 B2 Upper Intermediate
to think about a particular fact when you are judging a situation.
to take something into account or show regard for a specific factor.
Simple“You must consider the feelings of others before you speak.”
In context“When calculating the final budget, the architect had to consider the fluctuating costs of raw materials like steel and timber.”
SynonymsAntonyms
Usage consider a donation · consider acceptable · consider adequate
From Middle English consideren, from Middle French considerer, from Latin considerare.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.