First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
consider
verb con·sid·er \kən-ˈsi-dər\
: to think about (something or someone) carefully especially in order to make a choice or decision
: to think about (something that is important in understanding something or in making a decision or judgment)
: to think about (a person or a person's feelings) before you do something in order to avoid making someone upset, angry, etc.
con·sid·eredcon·sid·er·ing \-d(ə-)riŋ\
Full Definition of CONSIDER
transitive verb
1
: to think about carefully: as a : to think of especially with regard to taking some action <is considering you for the job> <considered moving to the city> b : to take into account <defendant's age must be considered>
2
: to regard or treat in an attentive or kindly way <he considered her every wish>
3
: to gaze on steadily or reflectively
4
: to come to judge or classify <consider thrift essential>
5
: regard <his works are well considered abroad>
6
: suppose
intransitive verb
: reflect, deliberate <paused a moment to consider>
See consider defined for English-language learners
See consider defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of CONSIDER
Middle English, from Anglo-French considerer, from Latin considerare to observe, think about, from com- + sider-, sidus heavenly body
Related to CONSIDER
Synonym Discussion of CONSIDER
consider, study, contemplate, weigh 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>. study implies sustained purposeful concentration and attention to details and minutiae <study the plan closely>. contemplate stresses focusing one's thoughts on something but does not imply coming to a conclusion or decision <contemplate the consequences of refusing>. 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>.
Rhymes with CONSIDER
CONSIDER Defined for Kids
consider
verb con·sid·er \kən-ˈsi-dər\
con·sid·eredcon·sid·er·ing
Definition of CONSIDER for Kids
2
: to treat in a kind or thoughtful way <You never consider my feelings.>
3
: to think of in a certain way : believe <I consider vacation a good time to do some reading.>
Learn More About CONSIDER
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: considerable (adjective)Previous Word in the Dictionary: conshyAll Words Near: consider
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up consider? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).