Definition of considernext
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Synonym Chooser

How does the verb consider differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of consider are contemplate, study, and weigh. While all these words mean "to think about in order to arrive at a judgment or decision," consider may suggest giving thought to in order to reach a suitable conclusion, opinion, or decision.

refused even to consider my proposal

In what contexts can contemplate take the place of consider?

The synonyms contemplate and consider are sometimes interchangeable, but contemplate stresses focusing one's thoughts on something but does not imply coming to a conclusion or decision.

contemplate the consequences of refusing

When would study be a good substitute for consider?

The meanings of study and consider largely overlap; however, study implies sustained purposeful concentration and attention to details and minutiae.

study the plan closely

When could weigh be used to replace consider?

Although the words weigh and consider have much in common, weigh implies attempting to reach the truth or arrive at a decision by balancing conflicting claims or evidence.

weigh the pros and cons of the case

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of consider On Tuesday, the city council is scheduled to consider appointing Deputy Chief Carson Thomas to the chief’s position. Nick Ferraro, Twin Cities, 4 Apr. 2026 But while his football recruitment hits high gear, the junior outfielder hasn’t even considered walking away from baseball. Steve Millar, Chicago Tribune, 4 Apr. 2026 That concern has some Taiwanese considering Malaysia as a back-up, said Jessica Chang, an education consultant who helps students and their families research friendly visa policies. Stephanie Yang, CNN Money, 4 Apr. 2026 The Heat would be wise to consider the same with the personnel wing. Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 4 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for consider
Recent Examples of Synonyms for consider
Verb
  • The helpful trine between the Moon in your private 12th house and Jupiter in your cautious 8th house offers astrological support regarding tender topics.
    Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 4 Apr. 2026
  • Defense attorneys had lined up a Texas lab regarded as one of the most respected in the nation, with the head of that lab testifying that the testing and analysis of any DNA that could be extracted would take two weeks or less.
    Orlando Sentinel Editorial Board, The Orlando Sentinel, 3 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • That doesn't mean women never contemplate committing violence (and again, Emma never went through with her plan).
    Mike Miller, Entertainment Weekly, 4 Apr. 2026
  • After staring down 30, experiencing a career lull, and contemplating quitting music altogether, the singer staked her future in the industry on the fate of her fourth record.
    Harry Tafoya, Pitchfork, 2 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • What was John thinking before the surface of the water appeared before his windshield, rushing forward at terrifying speed?
    Jeffrey Eugenides, New Yorker, 4 Apr. 2026
  • How many average people have once thought about harming ourselves or others?
    Patrick Ryan, USA Today, 4 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • The firm has seen operators anticipate relatively short life cycles and construct facilities that are more modular in response.
    April Roach, CNBC, 6 Apr. 2026
  • Doncic’s agency first told ESPN of the news of the Slovenian star’s attempt to recover quicker, potentially joining the Lakers for games in the playoffs sooner than anticipated.
    Benjamin Royer, Oc Register, 6 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • This is a lovely array of dresses, and it is pulled from a collection that DAM’s fans and supporters can easily admire.
    Ray Mark Rinaldi, Denver Post, 6 Apr. 2026
  • Bluhm, a sophomore outside, admires his senior teammate.
    Jeff Vorva, Chicago Tribune, 6 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • The shooting prompted protests over police use of force, and calls for police to stop foot pursuits altogether until the department overhauls its chase policies.
    CBS Chicago Team, CBS News, 6 Apr. 2026
  • Michael recommended a company called SwissChems.
    Dhruv Khullar, New Yorker, 6 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • And maybe one of those records was… The bard of New England dares to get meaningful on this two-part song, which begins by pondering the mysteries of time and ends with a singalong ode to seasonal renewal.
    Brett Milano, Boston Herald, 5 Apr. 2026
  • Let’s ponder recently released 2024 statistics.
    Jeff Goertzen, Oc Register, 4 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • This was believed to be the first time in baseball history a player has robbed three homers in one game.
    ABC News, ABC News, 5 Apr. 2026
  • Police said it was believed the driver initiated the right turn and hit the bicyclist, a 69-year-old man from Joliet, believed to have been traveling eastbound on the sidewalk on the south side of West Jefferson Street and had entered the roadway to cross Springfield Avenue.
    Jeramie Bizzle, CBS News, 5 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Consider.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/consider. Accessed 8 Apr. 2026.

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