Consider in a Sentence: Simple Examples for Learners
The word consider means to think about something carefully before making a decision or forming an opinion. In daily English, you use it when you are weighing options, showing respect for someone’s feelings, or evaluating a situation. This guide gives you clear, simple examples so you can use consider naturally in your own sentences.
Quick Answer: How to Use “Consider”
Use consider + a noun, a gerund (verb + -ing), or a question word clause. For example:
- Consider + noun: “Please consider my request.”
- Consider + gerund: “We are considering moving to a new city.”
- Consider + question word: “Have you considered what this means for the team?”
It is a formal-to-neutral verb. It works in both writing and speaking, but it sounds more thoughtful than “think about.”
Understanding the Meaning and Tone
Consider is not the same as “think about” in every situation. When you consider something, you give it serious attention. It often implies respect or careful evaluation. In emails, it sounds polite and professional. In conversation, it can show that you are being thoughtful.
Formal vs. Informal Use
- Formal (email, business, academic): “We kindly ask you to consider our proposal.”
- Informal (everyday talk): “I’m considering getting a dog.”
In casual speech, many learners use “think about” more often. But using consider makes your English sound more precise and mature.
Comparison Table: Consider vs. Think About vs. Regard
| Word | Meaning | Example | Tone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Consider | Think carefully, often with respect or evaluation | “She considered all the options before deciding.” | Formal / Neutral |
| Think about | General mental attention, not necessarily deep | “I’m thinking about what to eat.” | Informal |
| Regard | View or see in a particular way | “I regard him as a friend.” | Formal |
Use consider when you want to show that you are giving something real thought. Use think about for lighter, everyday ideas. Use regard for opinions or judgments.
Natural Examples for Everyday Use
Here are sentences you can use in real conversations, emails, and writing. Notice the patterns.
In Conversation
- “Have you ever considered learning Spanish?”
- “I’m considering taking the train instead of driving.”
- “Please consider how this will affect your family.”
- “We should consider all the facts before we argue.”
In Email or Writing
- “We consider your feedback very important.”
- “Please consider this matter urgent.”
- “After considering your application, we have decided to move forward.”
- “We kindly ask you to consider our revised offer.”
With Gerunds (Verb + -ing)
This is a very common structure. Use consider + gerund when talking about an action.
- “They are considering selling their house.”
- “I never considered becoming a teacher.”
- “Are you considering changing your job?”
With Question Words
You can follow consider with what, how, whether, where, or when.
- “We need to consider what the customer really wants.”
- “Have you considered how much time this will take?”
- “She is considering whether to accept the offer.”
Common Mistakes Learners Make
Even advanced learners sometimes use consider incorrectly. Here are the most frequent errors and how to fix them.
Mistake 1: Using “to” after “consider”
Incorrect: “I am considering to buy a new phone.”
Correct: “I am considering buying a new phone.”
Consider is never followed by an infinitive (to + verb). Always use a gerund or a noun.
Mistake 2: Confusing “consider” with “consider as”
Incorrect: “I consider him as my best friend.”
Correct: “I consider him my best friend.”
In standard English, you do not need “as” after consider when you mean “regard.” You can say “consider him my friend” or “regard him as a friend.”
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.”
Use consider for decisions that need some thought. For small, everyday choices, “think about” sounds more natural.
Mistake 4: Forgetting the object
Incorrect: “Please consider.” (Missing what to consider)
Correct: “Please consider my suggestion.”
Always include what is being considered, unless the context is very clear.
Better Alternatives and When to Use Them
Sometimes consider is not the best word. Here are alternatives for different situations.
- Evaluate – Use when you are judging quality or value. “We need to evaluate the results.”
- Weigh – Use when comparing options. “She weighed the pros and cons.”
- Contemplate – Use for deep, thoughtful reflection. “He contemplated the meaning of the poem.”
- Take into account – Use when including a factor in a decision. “You must take into account the budget.”
- Think over – Use for informal, personal decisions. “I need to think over your offer.”
Choose consider when you want a balanced, respectful, and clear word that works in most contexts.
Mini Practice: 4 Questions with Answers
Test yourself. Fill in the blank with the correct form of consider or choose the best option.
1. “We are ___________ moving to a bigger office.”
Answer: considering
2. “Please ___________ my application carefully.”
Answer: consider
3. “She ___________ becoming a doctor when she was young.”
Answer: considered
4. “Have you ___________ what your parents will think?”
Answer: considered
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use “consider” in casual conversation?
Yes, but it sounds a little formal. In casual talk, “think about” is more common. Use consider when you want to sound thoughtful or polite.
2. Is “consider” followed by a gerund or infinitive?
Always a gerund (verb + -ing). Never use “to + verb” after consider. For example: “I am considering studying abroad.”
3. What is the difference between “consider” and “regard”?
Consider means to think about something carefully. Regard means to have a particular opinion about someone or something. You can say “I consider him a friend” (I think of him that way) or “I regard him as a friend” (same meaning, but more formal).
4. Can I use “consider” in negative sentences?
Yes. For example: “I don’t consider that a good idea.” “She never considered leaving her job.” It works naturally in negatives.
Final Tips for Learners
To master consider, practice using it in three patterns: with a noun (“consider the cost”), with a gerund (“consider moving”), and with a question word (“consider how it works”). Start with one pattern each day. Write two sentences for each. Soon, you will use consider naturally in your daily English, whether you are writing an email, having a conversation, or preparing for a test.
For more help with daily English sentences, visit our Daily English Sentences section. If you have questions, feel free to contact us. You can also read our editorial policy to understand how we create our guides.