Consider in a Sentence: Simple Examples for Learners

The verb consider means to think carefully about something, especially 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. For example: “Please consider my application before the deadline.” This article gives you clear, simple examples of how to use consider in a sentence, 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” or “take into account.” It is often followed by a noun, a gerund (verb + -ing), or a clause starting with “that.”

• Consider + noun: “Consider the cost before buying.”
• Consider + gerund: “I am considering moving to a new city.”
• Consider + that clause: “Consider that he has no experience.”

This structure works in both formal and informal settings, but consider is slightly more formal than “think about.”

Formal vs. Informal Tone

Consider is common in professional emails, academic writing, and polite requests. In casual conversation, native speakers often use “think about” or “look at” instead. Compare these examples:

In email writing, consider sounds respectful and professional. In conversation with friends, “think about” feels more natural. However, you can still use consider in speech when you want to sound thoughtful or serious.

Natural Examples of “Consider” in Sentences

Here are real-life examples you can use in daily English, writing, and email:

Daily English Sentences (Conversation)

• “I’ll consider your suggestion and let you know tomorrow.”
• “Have you considered taking a different route to work?”
• “She considered his offer but decided to stay.”
• “We should consider the weather before planning the picnic.”

Writing Sentence Examples (Academic or Professional)

• “The committee will consider your application next week.”
• “Consider the evidence before drawing a conclusion.”
• “Researchers must consider ethical implications.”
• “When writing a report, consider your audience.”

Email Context

• “Dear Mr. Lee, please consider my request for a deadline extension.”
• “We kindly ask you to consider our partnership proposal.”
• “Thank you for considering my application.”
• “Please consider this matter urgent.”

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 change my job.”
Correct: “I consider changing my job.” (use gerund)
Or: “I am considering changing my job.”

Mistake 2: Forgetting the object

Incorrect: “Please consider.” (incomplete)
Correct: “Please consider my request.”

Mistake 3: Using “consider” as a synonym for “think” without an object

Incorrect: “I consider that it is true.” (awkward)
Correct: “I consider it true.” or “I think it is true.”

Mistake 4: Confusing “consider” with “regard”

Incorrect: “I consider him as a friend.”
Correct: “I consider him a friend.” (no “as”)
Or: “I regard him as a friend.”

Better Alternatives and When to Use Them

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

Use consider when you want a neutral, polite, or professional tone. Use “think about” for casual chats. Use “evaluate” or “weigh” when you want to emphasize careful analysis.

Nuance: What “Consider” Really Implies

Consider does not mean you will agree or take action. It simply means you will give thought to something. For example:

• “I will consider your offer.” (I will think about it, but I may say no.)
• “She considered the proposal.” (She thought about it, but she might reject it.)

This nuance is important in business and polite conversation. If you want to show you are likely to accept, use “I will seriously consider” or “I am leaning toward.”

Mini Practice Section

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

1. I am _______ a new hobby.
   a) consider to start
   b) considering starting
   c) consider start
   Answer: b) considering starting
2. Please _______ my situation before judging.
   a) consider
   b) consider to
   c) consider as
   Answer: a) consider
3. We should _______ all the facts.
   a) think about
   b) consider
   c) both a and b are correct
   Answer: c) both a and b are correct
4. He _______ her a good friend.
   a) considers
   b) considers as
   c) consider to
   Answer: a) considers

FAQ: Common Questions About “Consider”

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

Yes. The past tense is considered. Example: “I considered your advice carefully.”

2. Is “consider” always followed by a gerund?

No. It can be followed by a noun (“consider the price”), a gerund (“consider moving”), or a that-clause (“consider that he is new”). But never by “to” + verb.

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

Consider means to think about something carefully. Regard means to view or see something in a particular way. Compare: “I consider him a friend” (I think of him as a friend) vs. “I regard him as a friend” (same meaning, but “regard” always needs “as”).

4. Can I use “consider” in negative sentences?

Yes. Example: “I don’t consider that a good idea.” This is common and natural.

Final Tips for Using “Consider”

To use consider correctly in your daily English sentences:

• Always follow it with a noun, gerund, or that-clause—never “to.”
• Use it in formal writing and polite requests.
• In casual conversation, “think about” is more common, but “consider” is fine for emphasis.
• Remember that “consider” does not mean automatic agreement—it means thoughtful evaluation.

For more practice with similar verbs, visit our Daily English Sentences section. If you have questions about usage, check our FAQ page or contact us.