Consider in a Sentence: Simple Examples for Learners
The verb “consider” means to think about something carefully, usually before making a decision. In everyday English, you use it to show that you are weighing options, reflecting on an idea, or taking something into account. This guide gives you direct, practical examples of “consider” in sentences, explains the difference between formal and informal use, and helps you avoid common mistakes.
Quick Answer: How to Use “Consider”
Use “consider” when you want to say “think about” in a more deliberate way. It often appears in three patterns:
- Consider + noun/gerund: “Please consider my proposal.” / “Consider joining the team.”
- Consider + that clause: “I consider that we need more time.”
- Consider + object + adjective/noun: “I consider her a friend.” / “We consider the plan risky.”
In conversation, “consider” sounds slightly more formal than “think about,” but it is perfectly natural in both spoken and written English.
Simple Sentence Examples with “Consider”
Here are straightforward examples you can use right away. Each one shows a common situation.
Everyday Conversation
- I will consider your offer.
- Have you considered moving to a bigger apartment?
- She considered his advice before replying.
- We are considering a trip to the beach this weekend.
- Consider the cost before you buy.
Work and Email Context
- Please consider my application for the position.
- The team is considering several new ideas for the project.
- We kindly ask you to consider our proposal.
- After careful consideration, we decided to accept the contract.
- Consider this an invitation to the meeting.
Writing and Academic Use
- The author considers this topic essential for understanding history.
- Consider the following example.
- Many experts consider this approach outdated.
- We must consider all the evidence before drawing a conclusion.
- Consider how this change affects the overall argument.
Formal vs. Informal Tone
“Consider” works in both formal and informal settings, but the surrounding words change the tone.
| Context | Example Sentence | Tone |
|---|---|---|
| Informal conversation | I’m considering getting a dog. | Casual, friendly |
| Formal email | We would appreciate it if you could consider our request. | Polite, professional |
| Academic writing | This study considers the effects of climate change on agriculture. | Objective, formal |
| Everyday advice | Consider taking a break if you feel tired. | Neutral, helpful |
Notice that in informal speech, you can replace “consider” with “think about” without changing the meaning much. In formal writing, “consider” is often the better choice because it sounds more precise.
Natural Examples in Context
Read these short dialogues and sentences to see how “consider” flows naturally.
Dialogue 1: Making a Decision
A: Should I take the job in another city?
B: You should consider the salary and the cost of living there.
A: Good point. I’ll consider it carefully.
Dialogue 2: Giving Advice
A: I’m not sure which course to choose.
B: Consider what you enjoy most. That will help you decide.
Single Sentences
- Before you complain, consider how the other person might feel.
- She considered every option before making her choice.
- We should consider the weather before planning the picnic.
- He is considered an expert in his field.
- Consider this a friendly warning.
Common Mistakes with “Consider”
Learners often make these errors. Avoid them to sound more natural.
Mistake 1: Using “to” after “consider”
Incorrect: I consider to go to the party.
Correct: I consider going to the party. (Use the gerund form)
Mistake 2: Forgetting the object
Incorrect: Please consider.
Correct: Please consider my request. (Add what you want them to think about)
Mistake 3: Using “consider” when “think about” is more natural
Awkward: I considered about your idea.
Natural: I thought about your idea. (Or: I considered your idea.)
Mistake 4: Confusing “consider” with “considerate”
Incorrect: He is a very consider person.
Correct: He is a very considerate person. (“Considerate” means thoughtful of others.)
Better Alternatives and When to Use Them
Sometimes “consider” is not the best word. Here are alternatives for different situations.
| Situation | Instead of “consider” | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Casual suggestion | think about | Think about joining us for dinner. |
| Strong recommendation | recommend | I recommend you take the early train. |
| Evaluating options | weigh | We need to weigh the pros and cons. |
| Believing something | believe / regard | I believe this is the best solution. |
| Taking into account | take into account | Take into account the time difference. |
Use “consider” when you want a neutral, thoughtful tone. Use “think about” in quick, informal speech. Use “recommend” when you are giving advice with confidence.
When to Use “Consider”
Use “consider” in these situations:
- Before a decision: “Consider all the facts before voting.”
- In polite requests: “Would you consider helping us?”
- In formal writing: “This paper considers the economic impact.”
- When expressing an opinion: “I consider this a fair deal.”
- In instructions: “Consider the following steps.”
Avoid using “consider” when you want to sound very casual or when the action is immediate. For example, “I consider eating lunch now” sounds odd. Instead, say “I’m thinking about eating lunch now.”
Mini Practice: 4 Questions with Answers
Test your understanding. Complete each sentence with the correct form of “consider” or choose the best option.
Question 1
Fill in the blank: “Please _______ our offer before you decide.”
Answer: consider
Question 2
Which sentence is correct?
a) I consider to study abroad.
b) I consider studying abroad.
Answer: b) I consider studying abroad.
Question 3
Rewrite this sentence using “consider”: “Think about the consequences.”
Answer: Consider the consequences.
Question 4
True or false: “Consider” can be used in both formal and informal English.
Answer: True.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use “consider” in everyday conversation?
Yes. While “consider” is slightly more formal than “think about,” it is common in everyday speech. For example, “I’m considering a new hobby” sounds natural.
2. What is the difference between “consider” and “regard”?
“Consider” often involves thinking or evaluating. “Regard” is more about how you see or view something. For example, “I consider this a good idea” (I think it is good) vs. “I regard this as a good idea” (I view it that way). They are often interchangeable, but “consider” is more active.
3. Is “consider” followed by a gerund or an infinitive?
It is followed by a gerund (verb + -ing). For example: “Consider moving to a new city.” Do not say “Consider to move.”
4. Can “consider” be used without an object?
Usually no. You need to say what you are considering. For example, “I will consider it” or “Consider the options.” Using “consider” alone sounds incomplete.
Final Tips for Learners
To use “consider” well, remember these three points:
- Always follow it with a noun, a gerund, or a clause.
- Use it when you want to sound thoughtful or polite.
- Practice by replacing “think about” with “consider” in your own sentences.
For more help with everyday vocabulary, visit our Daily English Sentences section. If you have questions about sentence structure, check Simple Sentence Examples. For writing tips, see Writing Sentence Examples. To avoid common errors, read Common Usage Mistakes. You can also learn more about our approach on the About Us page.
