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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 And instead of Ziploc bags, consider these best-selling leakproof clear silicone bags that are so popular on Amazon that more than 4,000 were purchased in the last month alone. Katie Jackson, Travel + Leisure, 5 July 2025 There’s also the unique geopolitical role of Qatar to consider. Robert Rapier, Forbes.com, 23 June 2025 Many consider the cases to be politically motivated, although Erdogan’s government contends that the courts are impartial and free of political involvement. Los Angeles Times, 23 June 2025 Despite its short length the canyon trail is rugged, so be sure to wear good hiking shoes and consider bringing a trekking pole. Maura Fox, San Diego Union-Tribune, 23 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for consider
Recent Examples of Synonyms for consider
Verb
  • The center neighborhood of Charlotte has always had speculation regarding its name.
    Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer, 10 July 2025
  • The charges stemmed from claims made in October 2021 by a 21-year-old woman regarding an incident at a Lake Oswego party at the home of Robert Covington, one of McLemore’s then-teammates.
    DeMicia Inman, VIBE.com, 10 July 2025
Verb
  • While Leslie’s book is largely about Lennon, McCartney and their fruitful collaborations, contemplate what George Harrison became.
    John Tamny, Forbes.com, 2 July 2025
  • Wright decided to come out after contemplating suicide in 2006.
    Jeff Nelson, People.com, 30 June 2025
Verb
  • In dialogue with feminist visual traditions—think Jo Spence and Ana Mendieta—Brontē’s project carves its own terrain.
    Alessia Glaviano, Vogue, 7 July 2025
  • Founding member of the pop rock band OneRepublic and political outsider Tim Myers thinks so.
    William Melhado July 7, Sacbee.com, 7 July 2025
Verb
  • The company anticipates cleanup efforts to wrap up at the end of August, but the target may be adjusted as needed to ensure safety.
    Rob Nikolewski, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 July 2025
  • The climate crisis is anticipated to worsen natural disasters, including extreme rain.
    Michelle Krupa, CNN Money, 7 July 2025
Verb
  • The reaction online to the viral clip has been mixed—confused for some, admiring for others.
    Soo Kim, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 June 2025
  • This is rare among American art museums and reinforces a commitment to RISD students and other creatives who want to learn from the pieces, not simply admire them.
    Chadd Scott, Forbes.com, 30 June 2025
Verb
  • If the bill was a mistake, call 1-800-HHS-TIPS to report it.
    Louise Norris, Verywell Health, 14 Feb. 2023
  • However, today most young people rarely call each other.
    Andrea Wigfield, CNN, 14 Feb. 2023
Verb
  • The modern 55 and older homebuyer isn’t looking to sit all day on a recliner pondering our end of life options.
    Jamie Gold, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025
  • The two countries have been engaged in aerial strikes and Trump had been pondering U.S. involvement for the past week.
    Swapna Venugopal Ramaswamy, USA Today, 23 June 2025
Verb
  • Alcohol was not believed to be a factor in the crash, police said.
    City News Service, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 July 2025
  • With the adoption of AI for more of the routine work of accounting, Auden believes accountants must develop their communication skills to effectively interpret the data for the business.
    Esther K. Choy, Forbes.com, 6 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Consider.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/consider. Accessed 14 Jul. 2025.

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