What Does consider Mean? Simple Explanation and Examples

If you are learning English, the word consider can feel a little tricky because it has more than one shade of meaning. In its simplest form, consider means to think about something carefully before making a decision or to have an opinion about someone or something. For example, if you say, “I am considering a new job,” you mean you are thinking seriously about taking it. If you say, “I consider her a friend,” you mean that is your opinion of her. This guide will explain the core meaning, show you how to use it in real sentences, and help you avoid common mistakes.

Quick Answer: What Does consider Mean?

Consider is a verb that means to think about something with attention, or to have a particular opinion about someone or something. It is a formal but common word used in everyday English, emails, and conversations. You can use it when you are weighing options (“Please consider my offer”) or when you are stating your view (“I consider this a good idea”).

The Core Meaning of consider

At its heart, consider means to give thought to something. It is stronger than just “think about” because it implies a careful or serious mental process. There are two main ways to use it:

• To think about a possibility: “We are considering moving to a bigger apartment.”
• To have a particular opinion: “Most people consider him an expert.”

In both cases, the word shows that you are not just having a quick thought—you are actively evaluating or forming a judgment.

Formal and Informal Tone

Consider is slightly formal, but it is used in both casual and professional settings. In a conversation with a friend, you might say, “I’m considering getting a dog.” In a business email, you might write, “Please consider my proposal.” The word itself does not change, but the context around it can make it sound more formal or more relaxed.

• Informal: “I’m considering going to the party.”
• Formal: “The committee will consider your application.”

If you want a more casual alternative, you can use think about or weigh (though “weigh” is still somewhat formal). For example, “I’m thinking about buying a new phone” is less formal than “I’m considering buying a new phone.”

Email and Conversation Context

In emails, consider is very useful for polite requests and professional communication. Here are a few common patterns:

• Polite request: “Please consider my suggestion for the project.”
• Giving an opinion: “We consider this matter urgent.”
• Asking for thought: “Consider the benefits before you decide.”

In conversation, you can use it naturally: “I’m considering taking a break from work.” It sounds thoughtful and deliberate, which is good for serious topics.

Comparison Table: consider vs. think about vs. regard

Note: Regard is more formal than consider and is often used in writing. Think about is the most casual choice.

Natural Examples of consider

Here are real-life sentences that show how native speakers use consider:

• “Have you considered studying abroad next year?”
• “She considers herself lucky to have found a good job.”
• “We need to consider all the risks before investing.”
• “I consider it a waste of time to argue about small things.”
• “Please consider my request for a day off.”
• “They are considering selling their house and moving to the countryside.”

Notice that after consider, you often use a noun, a gerund (verb + -ing), or a clause. For example: “consider the options” (noun), “consider moving” (gerund), “consider that it might rain” (clause).

Common Mistakes with consider

English learners often make a few predictable errors with this word. Here are the most frequent ones:

Mistake 1: Using “to” after consider

Incorrect: “I consider to change my job.”
Correct: “I consider changing my job.”
Why: After consider, use a gerund (verb + -ing), not an infinitive (to + verb).

Mistake 2: Forgetting “as” or “to be” when giving an opinion

Incorrect: “I consider him as a good teacher.” (This is common but not standard in all contexts.)
Correct: “I consider him a good teacher.” or “I consider him to be a good teacher.”
Why: You can drop “as” after consider when stating an opinion. Using “as” is sometimes seen in informal speech, but it is safer to use the direct form.

Mistake 3: Using consider for quick, unimportant thoughts

Incorrect: “I considered what to eat for lunch for a second.”
Better: “I thought about what to eat for lunch.”
Why: Consider implies more careful thought. For quick decisions, use think about.

Better Alternatives to consider

Depending on what you want to say, you can sometimes replace consider with a more specific word. Here are a few alternatives:

• Evaluate – Use when you are judging value or quality. “We need to evaluate the results.”
• Weigh – Use when comparing options. “Weigh the pros and cons.”
• Contemplate – Use for deep, thoughtful reflection. “She contemplated her future.”
• Think over – A phrasal verb that is less formal. “Think over my offer.”
• Regard – Use for a fixed opinion. “I regard this as a serious issue.”

Choose the word that fits the tone and depth of thought you want to express.

When to Use consider

Use consider when you want to sound thoughtful, polite, or professional. It is perfect for:

• Making a request in an email: “Please consider my application.”
• Giving a serious opinion: “I consider this a mistake.”
• Talking about future plans: “We are considering a trip to Japan.”
• Advising someone: “Consider all your options before deciding.”

Avoid using it for trivial matters or very casual speech. For example, do not say, “I considered which shirt to wear” unless you spent a long time thinking about it.

Mini Practice: 4 Questions with Answers

Test your understanding of consider. Choose the correct option for each sentence.

Question 1

“I am ______ a new hobby.”
a) considering to start
b) considering starting
c) consider starting

Answer: b) considering starting

Question 2

“She ______ him a reliable friend.”
a) considers
b) is considering
c) consider

Answer: a) considers

Question 3

“Please ______ my request for a transfer.”
a) think about
b) consider
c) both a and b are possible, but “consider” is more formal

Answer: c) both a and b are possible, but “consider” is more formal

Question 4

“They are ______ moving to another city.”
a) considering
b) consider to
c) considered

Answer: a) considering

Frequently Asked Questions about consider

1. Can I use “consider” with “as”?

Yes, but it is less common in standard English. For example, “I consider him as a friend” is used by some speakers, but “I consider him a friend” is more correct and natural. Avoid “as” in formal writing.

2. Is “consider” always formal?

No, it is neutral to formal. You can use it in everyday conversation, but it sounds more deliberate than “think about.” In very casual speech, “think about” is more common.

3. What is the difference between “consider” and “regard”?

Consider often involves thinking or evaluating, while regard is more about a fixed opinion or viewpoint. For example, “I consider your idea” means I am thinking about it, but “I regard your idea as interesting” means that is my opinion.

4. Can I use “consider” in the past tense?

Yes. The past tense is considered. For example, “I considered your offer, but I decided to decline.” It works the same way as the present tense.

Final Thoughts

Now you know that consider is a useful verb for showing careful thought or giving an opinion. Remember to use a gerund after it, avoid “as” when stating an opinion, and choose it when you want to sound thoughtful. Practice using it in your own sentences, and soon it will feel natural. For more help with confusing words, explore our Simple Meanings section or check our FAQ page for common questions. If you have a specific question, feel free to contact us.