What does consider mean?
To consider is to think about something attentively and deliberately, usually with a view toward reaching a decision, forming an opinion, or weighing alternatives. It also carries the sense of regarding or judging someone or something in a particular way — one might consider a candidate qualified, or consider a plan unwise. A third common use means to take something into account: 'considering the weather, turnout was good.' The word sits comfortably in both formal and casual contexts, appearing in legal documents and everyday conversation alike. Its connotations are thoughtful and measured; to be considered is the opposite of being dismissed or ignored. Etymologically rich, it descends from the Latin considere, literally 'to observe the stars,' which gives the word a poetic undertone of careful observation. Related forms such as consideration, considerable, and considerate extend its usefulness across many registers of English.
verbTo think about something carefully in order to reach a decision or judgment; to regard someone or something in a specified way.
- To think about something carefully, especially before making a decision
- To regard or view someone or something in a particular way (e.g., 'I consider him a friend')
- To take something into account; to bear in mind
"She considered the offer carefully before accepting."
"The committee will consider all applications before the end of the month."
"Many people consider her the finest pianist of her generation."
The word consider literally comes from Latin roots meaning 'to observe the stars' — when you consider something, you're doing a bit of ancient stargazing.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of consider
Consider derives from the Latin verb considere, formed from com- ('with, together') and sidus, sideris ('star, constellation'), originally meaning to observe the stars. It entered Middle English from Old French considerer around the late medieval period, retaining its core sense of attentive examination. It shares its celestial root with words like desire (from desiderare) and sidereal.
Related word forms
How consider is actually used
Consider is neutral in register, fitting both formal writing and everyday speech. In the sense 'to regard as,' it takes a noun or adjective complement directly ('consider it finished'), without 'as' in careful usage, though 'consider as' is common informally. It can also be followed by a gerund ('consider moving abroad').
Easily confused with consider
Consider is a verb meaning to think about something, while considerable is an adjective meaning large or significant in amount.
Consider means to think about something deliberately, whereas considerate describes a person who is thoughtful of others' feelings.