Understanding the Nuances of the Verb 'Consider'

In this segment from BBC Learning English, the focus is placed on dissecting the multi-faceted verb "consider." While often used in daily conversation, its application varies significantly depending on the context. This summary explores the three primary ways to utilize this verb effectively.

1. Spending Time to Think

At its most fundamental level, "consider" implies the act of "spending time to think" or "thinking about something." The podcast illustrates this with practical examples, such as:

• "I'm going to take some time to consider. Then I'll tell you my decision."
• "I'm considering how we can best use our time."

This usage highlights a deliberate mental process where an individual pauses to evaluate a situation before reaching a conclusion. It is an active state of reflection.

2. Factoring in Importance

Beyond simple reflection, the verb is used in a way that is "similar to taking into account." In this capacity, "consider" serves to highlight that a specific factor is important when "making a decision or judgment." The example provided, "She's learnt so much considering how late she started the course," demonstrates how the word acts as a bridge to contextualize achievements against external circumstances. Here, the speaker is acknowledging that a particular variable—the late start—must be weighed to properly assess the outcome.

3. Describing Perception and Judgment

Finally, the podcast explains that "consider" is used with an "object and an adjective or noun" to articulate one's opinion or perception of someone or something. This structure allows speakers to define their perspective on a person’s identity or status. For instance:

• "I consider him to be the best writer of his generation."
• "I consider her an expert."

By using this construction, the speaker is not just stating a fact, but offering a subjective assessment of character or skill, effectively placing someone in a specific category based on their observations.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

To summarize the linguistic lesson, "consider" is a versatile tool for "thinking about what's important" or "thinking what something's like." As the podcast suggests, when you are "considering what you didn't know before," you are effectively engaging in the critical thought process that the word demands. Whether evaluating a decision or forming an opinion on an expert, mastering these three structures will significantly enhance your ability to express complex thoughts clearly in English.