What does "reconsider" mean?

1. (to think again) to think about something again very carefully to see if you should change your mind. 2. (to change your mind) to decide not to do something you had planned, or to change your opinion.

How do you use "reconsider"?

Often followed by a noun phrase or a 'whether' clause. Frequently used as an intransitive verb in the imperative or in polite requests.

reconsider

US //ˌɹikənˈsɪdɝ// UK //ɹˌiːkənsˈɪdɐ// re·con·sid·er

1 to think again (v.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

to think about something again very carefully to see if you should change your mind.

to deliberate on a matter a second time, often to evaluate new evidence or circumstances.

Example

The manager asked the committee to reconsider their decision about the budget.

Example

After reviewing the quarterly results, the board was forced to reconsider its aggressive expansion strategy in the overseas market.

Usage

Often followed by a noun phrase or a 'whether' clause.
- rethink
- review
- re evaluate
- persist
- maintain
2 to change your mind (v.)
B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

to decide not to do something you had planned, or to change your opinion.

to undergo a change of mind regarding a previous commitment or viewpoint.

Example

I know you said no, but please reconsider.

Example

The witness initially refused to testify, but after speaking with her lawyer, she decided to reconsider.

Usage

Frequently used as an intransitive verb in the imperative or in polite requests.
- relent
- waver

Origin

From re- + consider.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Last updated June 20, 2026