weigh

Definition of weighnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb weigh differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of weigh are consider, contemplate, and study. While all these words mean "to think about in order to arrive at a judgment or decision," 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

When might consider be a better fit than weigh?

The words consider and weigh can be used in similar contexts, but consider may suggest giving thought to in order to reach a suitable conclusion, opinion, or decision.

refused even to consider my proposal

When is contemplate a more appropriate choice than weigh?

Although the words contemplate and weigh have much in common, contemplate stresses focusing one's thoughts on something but does not imply coming to a conclusion or decision.

contemplate the consequences of refusing

When could study be used to replace weigh?

The words study and weigh are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, study implies sustained purposeful concentration and attention to details and minutiae.

study the plan closely

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 weigh But those investments are funded by taxpayers, and that reality weighs heavily in any responsible budget vote. J.b. Jennings, Baltimore Sun, 5 Feb. 2026 At the East-West Shrine Bowl in January, York measured 5-foot-10 and weighed 232 pounds. Tony Catalina, Austin American Statesman, 5 Feb. 2026 The head of the first snowman weighed about 25,000 pounds. John Lauritsen, CBS News, 5 Feb. 2026 Despite these comparatively limited capabilities, the system weighed roughly 10 tons. Chris Young, Interesting Engineering, 5 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for weigh
Recent Examples of Synonyms for weigh
Verb
  • Support journalism that digs deeper into topics that matter most to Arkansans.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 6 Feb. 2026
  • To ignore race—or gender, or sexuality—while attempting to build working class solidarity is to say that there are some concerns of working class people that do not matter.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 5 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • At least one likely outcome would’ve been apparent, but pondering that likelihood wasn’t Pretti’s responsibility.
    Voice of the People, New York Daily News, 8 Feb. 2026
  • Its lessons are ones Republicans should ponder — and fast.
    Stephen Mihm, Twin Cities, 8 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Opening an investigation doesn't mean Mandelson will be arrested, charged or convicted.
    JILL LAWLESS THE ASSOCIATED PRESS, Arkansas Online, 5 Feb. 2026
  • This means that Venus, whether day or night, is always hotter than planet Mercury is, even at Mercury’s absolute hottest.
    Big Think, Big Think, 5 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • If the opportunity to sell Romero arises in the summer, Spurs should seriously consider cutting their losses and reinvesting the money in a more reliable defender.
    Jay Harris, New York Times, 8 Feb. 2026
  • While that is the standard that would be considered in a civil case, local investigators are also looking into whether any state laws were violated.
    Andy Rose, CNN Money, 7 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Collecting vinyl, clubbing at Berghain, contemplating polyamory—this is cool.
    Joshua Rothman, New Yorker, 6 Feb. 2026
  • Proponents of such laws cite potential conflicts of interest between public interests and private ones, particularly when lawmakers or officials are contemplating a move from one sphere to the other.
    Paul Egan, Freep.com, 4 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • The Florida House of Representatives is debating legislation that would require local governments to allow single-family homeowners to build accessory dwelling units — commonly known as efficiencies or granny flats — on their properties.
    Max Klaver, Miami Herald, 7 Feb. 2026
  • Join Richard Sher’s panel with Vatz, Catalina Byrd, Jimmy Mathis and Barry Gogel debating the continuing feud between Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott and State’s Attorney Ivan Bates.
    Bill Wachsberger, Baltimore Sun, 7 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • There was an offer which could have reached €40m for the Club Brugge centre-back Joel Ordonez, but the Belgian club, too, did not entertain a departure.
    Matt Woosnam, New York Times, 4 Feb. 2026
  • From home entertaining to everyday snacking, savory flavors are officially having a moment in 2026.
    Cori Sears, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • In this drama series, two friends recently divorced and widowed explore their new single lives with teenage children while questioning the possibility of a romantic future.
    Marina Johnson, Louisville Courier Journal, 8 Feb. 2026
  • Police questioned Barbosa after Arzola’s arrest.
    Milena Malaver, Miami Herald, 7 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Weigh.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/weigh. Accessed 11 Feb. 2026.

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