What Does consider Mean in Text Messages?

In text messages, consider means to think about something carefully before making a decision or forming an opinion. It is used when someone wants you to take a moment to reflect on a suggestion, idea, or option. For example, if a friend texts, “Consider joining us for dinner,” they are asking you to think it over, not to decide immediately. The word carries a tone of polite suggestion rather than demand, making it common in both casual chats and more formal written exchanges.

Quick Answer

Consider in texts means “think about” or “take into account.” It is often used to suggest an idea, ask for someone’s opinion, or show that you are weighing options. It is slightly more formal than “think about” but still fits everyday conversation.

How consider Is Used in Text and Chat

In text messaging and chat apps, consider appears in several common patterns. It can be a request, a suggestion, or part of a polite instruction. The tone depends on the relationship between the speakers and the context of the conversation.

Polite Suggestions

When you want to offer an idea without sounding pushy, consider works well. It softens the request and gives the other person room to agree or decline.

• “Consider taking a break if you’re tired.”
• “Consider checking the weather before you leave.”

Asking for Opinions

Sometimes consider is used to ask someone to think about a specific point before responding.

• “Consider the cost before you decide.”
• “Consider how this will affect your schedule.”

Formal vs. Informal Tone

Consider is more formal than think about but less formal than contemplate. In casual chats with close friends, you might hear “Think about it” more often. In work emails or group chats, consider is common because it sounds professional and respectful.

Comparison Table: consider vs. Similar Words

Natural Examples in Text and Chat

Here are realistic examples of how consider appears in everyday messages. Notice the context and tone.

• Friend to friend: “Consider coming to the party. It’ll be fun!”
• Work chat: “Please consider the deadline before submitting changes.”
• Family group: “Consider staying an extra day so we can visit the museum.”
• Study group: “Consider reviewing chapter 5 before the quiz.”
• Customer service: “Consider upgrading your plan for more features.”

Common Mistakes with consider in Texts

English learners often make errors when using consider in messages. Here are the most frequent mistakes and how to fix them.

Mistake 1: Using consider without an object

Incorrect: “I will consider.”
Correct: “I will consider your suggestion.”
Consider needs a direct object. You must say what you are thinking about.

Mistake 2: Using consider + to + verb

Incorrect: “Consider to join us.”
Correct: “Consider joining us.”
After consider, use the gerund (verb + -ing), not the infinitive.

Mistake 3: Using consider as a command

Incorrect: “Consider this now!” (sounds angry)
Correct: “Please consider this when you have time.”
Consider is polite. Using it as a strong command can sound rude.

Mistake 4: Confusing consider with regard

Incorrect: “I consider him as a friend.”
Correct: “I consider him a friend.”
When consider means “have an opinion,” do not add as.

Better Alternatives and When to Use Them

Depending on the situation, you might choose a different word instead of consider. Here are some alternatives and their best uses.

• Think about – Best for casual texts with friends. Example: “Think about what movie to watch.”
• Look into – Good for researching or investigating. Example: “Look into that restaurant for us.”
• Keep in mind – Useful for reminders. Example: “Keep in mind the store closes early.”
• Reflect on – More thoughtful and serious. Example: “Reflect on your goals for this year.”
• Mull over – Informal and means to think slowly. Example: “I’ll mull over your idea.”

Use consider when you want a polite, balanced tone that is not too casual or too stiff.

Mini Practice: Check Your Understanding

Test yourself with these four questions. Answers are below.

Question 1

Which sentence is correct?

A) “Consider to take a break.”
B) “Consider taking a break.”

Question 2

What does “Consider my offer” mean in a text?

A) Accept the offer now.
B) Think about the offer before deciding.

Question 3

Fill in the blank: “Please ______ the time difference when you call.”

A) consider
B) consider to

Question 4

Is “Consider this carefully!” polite or rude in a text?

A) Polite
B) Rude

Answers

Answer 1: B) “Consider taking a break.” Use gerund after consider.
Answer 2: B) Think about the offer before deciding. Consider means to think, not to accept.
Answer 3: A) consider. “Consider the time difference” is correct.
Answer 4: B) Rude. Using consider with an exclamation mark sounds demanding.

FAQ About consider in Text Messages

1. Can I use consider in a casual text to a friend?

Yes, but it sounds slightly more formal than “think about.” If you want to stay very casual, use “think about” instead. For example, “Think about coming over” feels more natural between close friends than “Consider coming over.”

2. Is consider always polite?

Usually yes, but tone matters. If you write “Consider this!” without any softening words, it can sound like an order. Adding “please” or “maybe” keeps it polite.

3. What is the difference between consider and regard?

Consider means to think about or have an opinion. Regard means to look at or treat in a certain way. For example, “I consider her a friend” means I think of her as a friend. “I regard her highly” means I respect her.

4. Can I use consider in a group chat?

Yes, it works well in group chats, especially when making suggestions. For example, “Consider meeting at 6 PM instead” is clear and polite for a group.

Final Note on Using consider

In text messages and chat, consider is a useful word for suggesting, asking, or reminding. It is not too formal for most conversations, but it is polite enough for work and study contexts. Remember to use the gerund form after it, include a direct object, and avoid using it as a harsh command. With practice, you will use consider naturally in your own messages.

For more guides on phrasal verbs and word usage, visit our Text and Chat Usage section. If you have questions, check our FAQ or contact us.