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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 There are several methods to consider, depending on factors like your plan for the space after removal and your budget. Daniel Scott, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 Apr. 2025 This result is far from a disaster though, as key Flamengo players had just returned from a busy international break, and visitors Inter are also considered title contenders. Joseph O'Sullivan, Forbes.com, 1 Apr. 2025 Rectangles of prospective dimensions are considered. Sarah K. Rich, Artforum, 1 Apr. 2025 After 270 days without making a payment, a borrower is considered in default, which means wages and tax refunds can be seized by the U.S. government. Cory Turner, NPR, 31 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for consider
Recent Examples of Synonyms for consider
Verb
  • Receiving regular playing time is a factor regarding whether Acuña sticks in the majors.
    Will Sammon, New York Times, 18 Apr. 2025
  • The warning was issued Thursday at 4:16 p.m., and the last update regarding this incident was released on Thursday at 4:22 p.m.
    Kansas City Star Bot, Kansas City Star, 18 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • While contemplating his former love and his future as a father, Massey conjures up the apparition of his beloved Catherine.
    Claire Franken, TVLine, 10 Apr. 2025
  • Boasberg has been contemplating whether to hold any administration officials in contempt of court for ignoring his orders last month to turn around planes that were carrying the deportees to El Salvador.
    Alanna Durkin Richer, Chicago Tribune, 8 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • Officially launched at the end of the year, the collection brings Louboutin’s signature design codes to life in eyewear form—think bold architectural lines, sensual curves, and unmistakable touches of red.
    Mecca Pryor, Essence, 14 Apr. 2025
  • Researchers once thought this ability was unique to humans.
    Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 14 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • Read the full Cancer Daily Horoscope Leo (July 23 - August 22) Stuck in the past or anticipating the future?
    USA TODAY, USA Today, 14 Apr. 2025
  • While dealerships struggle to anticipate demand later in the year, foot traffic is up in recent weeks even as dealers hedge on how to stock their inventories.
    Pat Maio, Oc Register, 13 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • This renowned event transforms the charming coastal town into a haven for classic car aficionados, drawing thousands of visitors to admire an impressive array of vintage vehicles against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.
    Rowan Briggs, Mercury News, 18 Apr. 2025
  • There are plenty of reasons to admire the Elan, not least of all its beauty.
    Robert Ross, Robb Report, 18 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • However, today most young people rarely call each other.
    Andrea Wigfield, CNN, 14 Feb. 2023
  • Marx himself would call DEI a classic case of ideology, a set of benign-seeming ideas that disguise the workings of the rulers, in this case empowered progressives.
    WSJ, WSJ, 14 Feb. 2023
Verb
  • Fans took to the comments to both praise and ponder Trainor's new look.
    Tracy Wright, Fox News, 23 Mar. 2025
  • Today, train stops are preserved with wooden shelters with picnic tables, encouraging hikers, bikers, and horseback riders to stop to ponder the trail’s rich railroad history.
    Erin Gifford, Southern Living, 22 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Jones believes the debate will only end when lawmakers take action.
    CBS News, CBS News, 11 Apr. 2025
  • In China, markets fluctuated as investors responded to the White House clarifying that the level of tariffs on Chinese goods is now 145% -- not 125% as previously believed.
    David Brennan, ABC News, 11 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Consider.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/consider. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

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