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 Gelman says the record paperwork has been filed with the state, and his fish should top the current record, which weighed 42 pounds 13 ounces and was caught back in 1997. Bob McNally, Outdoor Life, 26 Feb. 2026 Lawmakers are weighing whether Connecticut should require signage warning of the dangers of energy drinks for children and teens. Mikayla Bunnell, Hartford Courant, 26 Feb. 2026 But other factors could weigh against Kalshi. Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 26 Feb. 2026 Currently 33 percent off, the sling holds all of the essentials without weighing you down. Caroline Hughes, Travel + Leisure, 26 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, 27 Feb. 2026
  • Watch this From the biggest names in their fields to experts on the most pressing topics of our time, NPR is breaking down the stories that matter through our in-depth interviews.
    Brittney Melton, NPR, 26 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • As androids are released from servitude and others chase down their own kind for their human masters, we're left to ponder the point-of-no-return for humanity and this artificial species.
    Fran Ruiz, Space.com, 1 Mar. 2026
  • Meanwhile, Derek’s mother-in-law visits, and Paul ponders his legacy.
    Jessica Radloff, Glamour, 1 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • War powers resolutions enjoy special privileges in both legislative chambers, meaning the minority party can force votes on them even against the wishes of the majority party − in this case, the GOP.
    Zachary Schermele, USA Today, 5 Mar. 2026
  • The away jersey features a white background with green horizontal lines inspired by the state’s agricultural roots and meant to reflect layered fields, according to the press release.
    Idaho Statesman, Idaho Statesman, 5 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Raisi was even considered by some as the natural successor to Khamenei and his worldview.
    Abbas Al Lawati, CNN Money, 1 Mar. 2026
  • Nationally, the percentage of fourth graders considered proficient in reading sits just above 30%, according to the 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress, known as the nation's report card.
    MAKIYA SEMINERA THE ASSOCIATED PRESS, Arkansas Online, 1 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • When contemplating the future of Bloom Ranch, Releford leans on the wisdom of the land.
    Martine Thompson, Los Angeles Times, 27 Feb. 2026
  • That could eviscerate Anthropic’s growth—just as the company, which is currently valued at $380 billion, has been seeing significant commercial traction and is contemplating an initial public offering as soon as next year.
    Jeremy Kahn, Fortune, 26 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Richard Sher’s panel of Pat McDonough, Sheila Dixon, Adam Wood and Dick Gelfman debate this issue.
    Bill Wachsberger, Baltimore Sun, 28 Feb. 2026
  • The jury is expect to be back in court on Monday afternoon to hear closing arguments after the attorneys debate the final charge instructions.
    Christopher Harris, CBS News, 27 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Mariachi Reyna de Los Ángeles, founded in South El Monte, rewrote the rules of music, becoming the first all-woman mariachi ensemble that has entertained for more than three decades.
    Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 4 Mar. 2026
  • View Outside’s longstanding literary storytelling tradition comes to life in audio with features that will both entertain and inform listeners.
    Outside Online, Outside Online, 4 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • But Staley, the incumbent sheriff, has questioned his lack of law enforcement experience.
    Faith Karimi, CNN Money, 1 Mar. 2026
  • The commissioners who appointed her should be forced to defend their appointee or question her judgment — one or the other.
    Steve Bousquet, Sun Sentinel, 28 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Weigh.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/weigh. Accessed 5 Mar. 2026.

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