Definition of considernext
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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 So until then, consider yourself under house arrest. Deanna Pai, Glamour, 6 June 2026 The order from Phelan, who later abruptly departed his post in April, said the board should consider an officer's performance, competence and character, among other traits, as part of those qualifications. ABC News, 6 June 2026 This case will be closed, and will be considered solved, non-criminal. Angel Saunders, PEOPLE, 6 June 2026 Now, after tackling what many considered the first impossible mission — reforming the United Nations — Bartos is preparing for what may prove an even harder challenge. Efrat Lachter, FOXNews.com, 6 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for consider
Recent Examples of Synonyms for consider
Verb
  • Lisabeth Pérez Castle, the city’s independent monitor, said in a statement that the vague new approach to discipline does not clearly explain how safety officials will comply with city laws regarding the monitor’s oversight.
    Shelly Bradbury, Denver Post, 29 May 2026
  • Kardashian’s ex, Tristan Thompson, sat down for an hour-long interview on her Khloé in Wonderland podcast to leave no stone unturned regarding their former relationship and current co-parenting partnership.
    Alejandra Gularte, Vulture, 29 May 2026
Verb
  • Setting the table Regional leaders contemplated that very possibility before the West Sacramento minor league park was ever built.
    Chris Biderman, Sacbee.com, 29 May 2026
  • Senate Republicans briefly contemplated a measure that would have provided a billion dollars to bolster ballroom security, but that provision has since been dropped from a larger GOP bill.
    Arden Farhi, CBS News, 28 May 2026
Verb
  • The chances of 3-star Mississippi tackle DJ Dotson choosing UGA are higher than most think.
    Jeff Sentell, AJC.com, 29 May 2026
  • My daughter calls me a creative engineer, someone who spends her life creatively thinking about ways to provide live experiences that offer joy and beauty, or maybe more importantly, that challenge us to see things differently.
    Jim Harrington, Mercury News, 29 May 2026
Verb
  • The Heart is a Lonely Hunter was hotly anticipated, despite—or because of—its strangeness.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 1 June 2026
  • The Washington Examiner also contacted Democrats, elected or otherwise, who are anticipated to run for their party’s 2028 presidential nomination, including Govs.
    Naomi Lim, The Washington Examiner, 31 May 2026
Verb
  • In terms of other possible options, Stuttgart’s Sebastian Hoeness and Lens’ Pierre Sage are admired.
    James Pearce, New York Times, 1 June 2026
  • The two rode electric bikes through the city, grabbed hamburgers, and made their way to Seventh Avenue and 46th Street to admire a digital billboard showing her latest American Eagle campaign.
    KiMi Robinson, USA Today, 31 May 2026
Verb
  • Butlers here are called Aris Meehas, a historical Maldivian reference to someone assigned to serve royalty—thankfully, interactions are more easy-going than overly deferential.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 June 2026
  • On one side were Carson’s years growing up in provincial Columbus, Georgia, and the succession of Southern towns to which her husband’s job had called them.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 1 June 2026
Verb
  • But Saturday’s action left plenty to ponder in the meantime.
    Jeff Rosen, Kansas City Star, 30 May 2026
  • There’s much for the hierarchy to ponder after such a torrid campaign.
    James Pearce, New York Times, 28 May 2026
Verb
  • Police believe the incident occurred when at least two people began shooting at each other at the festival.
    Anthony Thompson, USA Today, 7 June 2026
  • But that, believe it or not, isn't very big for here.
    John Ramos, CBS News, 7 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Consider.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/consider. Accessed 7 Jun. 2026.

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