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 The underground excavation machine, weighing around 500 tons, is designed to dig vertical shafts through solid rock at depths previously difficult to reach using conventional mining techniques. Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 9 Apr. 2026 Meatloaf, who weighs more than 200 lbs, was rescued earlier this year after being found tangled in fishing line and rope in the San Gabriel River, aquarium staff said. Cierra Morgan, Los Angeles Times, 9 Apr. 2026 She is described as a White woman with blonde hair and hazel eyes, who is 5 feet, 4 inches tall and weighs 120 lbs. Sam Gillette, PEOPLE, 9 Apr. 2026 Be sure to weigh costs, storage needs and risk tolerance before making a decision. Usa Today, USA Today, 9 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for weigh
Recent Examples of Synonyms for weigh
Verb
  • Even so, the contamination still matters because the entire Biscayne Aquifer system is connected.
    Ashley Miznazi, Miami Herald, 9 Apr. 2026
  • Towns returned the favor, assisting on three Brunson baskets — each coming in the fourth quarter, when the game tightened and every possession mattered more.
    Kristian Winfield, New York Daily News, 9 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
  • That may mean starting a new project or ending one that’s gone on too long.
    Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 9 Apr. 2026
  • The four-year extension means that bond will run through the 2030 season.
    The Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 9 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Overland Park is considering building new community pools as part of its widespread parks and recreation master plan.
    Taylor O'Connor, Kansas City Star, 5 Apr. 2026
  • Families should consider making a nutritious snack available an hour or so before sports practices so children with that earlier lunch time have energy available to fuel activities.
    Dr. Sarah Kinsella, Boston Herald, 5 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
  • Pop culture depictions of school shootings have often stoked controversy, with many viewers debating the line between storytelling and sensitivity.
    Saba Hamedy, NBC news, 3 Apr. 2026
  • As lawmakers debate, business owners like him remain worried about getting served with lawsuit papers.
    Kate Wolffe, Sacbee.com, 3 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Panini originally entertained selling the company in 2025, which The Athletic chronicled in December.
    Larry Holder, New York Times, 8 Apr. 2026
  • An adjacent nook offers space for a two-piece band, entertaining guests with live music both indoors and outside.
    Heidi Finley, Charlotte Observer, 8 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Still, some critics have questioned the role of law enforcement on school campuses, particularly in secondary schools, raising concerns that such programs can feel more like surveillance than support.
    Mona Darwish, Oc Register, 4 Apr. 2026
  • The hidden cost of going back to school Students are increasingly questioning the value proposition of higher education.
    Jake Angelo, Fortune, 4 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Weigh.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/weigh. Accessed 12 Apr. 2026.

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