How to Use consider Correctly: Meaning, Examples, and Mistakes

The verb consider means to think carefully about something, especially before making a decision. It is a formal but common word used in both writing and speech. Many learners confuse it with similar verbs like think about or regard, or they use the wrong grammatical structure after it. This guide explains the exact meaning of consider, how to use it in different contexts, and the most frequent mistakes to avoid.

Quick Answer: What Does consider Mean?

Consider means to spend time thinking about a possibility, option, or idea. It can also mean to have a particular opinion about someone or something. The key point is that consider involves mental evaluation, not just casual thought.

• Meaning 1: To think about something carefully (e.g., “I am considering a new job.”)
• Meaning 2: To have an opinion (e.g., “I consider him a friend.”)

Use consider when you want to sound deliberate and thoughtful. It is more formal than think about but less formal than contemplate.

How to Use consider in Different Contexts

Formal and Informal Tone

Consider works well in both formal and informal settings, but it leans slightly formal. In casual conversation, native speakers often use think about instead. For example:

• Formal (email): “Please consider my application for the position.”
• Informal (chat): “I’m thinking about getting a dog.” (Less formal than “I’m considering getting a dog.”)

Email and Writing Context

In professional emails, consider is common for polite requests or suggestions. It shows respect for the reader’s time and opinion.

• “We kindly ask you to consider our proposal.”
• “Please consider the following points before the meeting.”

Conversation Context

In everyday speech, consider is used when the speaker wants to show they are being serious or thoughtful. It is less common in quick, informal exchanges.

• “I’m considering moving to a new city.” (Shows careful thought)
• “Have you considered talking to your manager?” (A suggestion)

Comparison Table: consider vs. think about vs. regard

Use consider when you want to show deliberate evaluation. Use think about for casual ideas. Use regard for fixed opinions, often with as.

Natural Examples of consider

Here are real-life examples showing how native speakers use consider in different situations.

In Conversation

• “I’m considering taking a Spanish class next semester.”
• “Have you considered the cost of living in that city?”
• “She considered his advice before making a decision.”

In Email

• “We are considering your request and will respond soon.”
• “Please consider this a formal notice of change.”
• “I would appreciate it if you could consider my suggestion.”

In Social Media

• “Considering a new look for my profile. What do you think?”
• “Just considering all my options before the deadline.”

Common Mistakes with consider

Mistake 1: Using the Wrong Preposition

Incorrect: “I am considering about moving.”
Correct: “I am considering moving.”

Explanation: Consider is a transitive verb. It does not need a preposition like about. Just put the noun or gerund directly after it.

Mistake 2: Confusing consider with regard

Incorrect: “I consider him as a friend.”
Correct: “I consider him a friend.” (No as needed)
Also correct: “I regard him as a friend.” (With as)

Explanation: When consider means “have an opinion,” do not add as. Use as only with regard.

Mistake 3: Using consider for very casual thoughts

Awkward: “I am considering what to eat for lunch.”
Better: “I’m thinking about what to eat for lunch.”

Explanation: Consider sounds too serious for small, everyday decisions. Save it for bigger choices or formal contexts.

Better Alternatives and When to Use Them

Sometimes consider is not the best word. Here are alternatives for different situations.

• Think about: Use for casual, everyday ideas. “I’m thinking about going to the park.”
• Contemplate: Use for deep, serious thought. “She contemplated changing careers.”
• Weigh: Use when comparing options. “We need to weigh the pros and cons.”
• Regard: Use for fixed opinions. “I regard this as a priority.”

When to use consider: Use it in formal writing, polite requests, and when you want to sound thoughtful. Avoid it in very casual speech or for trivial matters.

Mini Practice: Test Your Understanding

Choose the correct option for each sentence. Answers are below.

1. I am _______ moving to a new apartment next month.
   a) considering about
   b) considering
   c) considering to
2. Please _______ my application for the scholarship.
   a) think about
   b) consider
   c) regard
3. She _______ him as her mentor.
   a) considers
   b) regards
   c) both are correct
4. Have you _______ the possibility of working from home?
   a) considered
   b) considered about
   c) considered to

Answers:

1. b) considering (No preposition needed)
2. b) consider (Formal request)
3. b) regards (With as, use regard)
4. a) considered (Direct object, no preposition)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use consider with a gerund?

Yes. For example: “I am considering buying a new car.” The gerund (verb + -ing) works as a noun after consider.

2. Is it ever correct to say “consider about”?

No. Consider is a transitive verb and takes a direct object. Never add about. If you want to use about, switch to think about.

3. What is the difference between consider and regard?

Consider means to think carefully or have an opinion. Regard means to view in a specific way and is always followed by as. Compare: “I consider him honest.” vs. “I regard him as honest.”

4. Can consider be used in negative sentences?

Yes. For example: “I don’t consider that a good idea.” It works naturally in negatives.

Final Tips for Using consider Correctly

To use consider naturally, remember these three rules:

• Never add a preposition like about or to after it.
• Do not use as when consider means “have an opinion.”
• Use it for serious or formal decisions, not for trivial choices.

For more help with similar verbs, visit our Examples and Common Mistakes section. You can also check our FAQ for quick answers to common questions.

If you have a specific question about this verb, feel free to contact us. We are happy to help you improve your English.