1. To think about carefully: This is the most common meaning of "consider." It implies taking the time to weigh options, evaluate information, and form an opinion.
* Example: "I'm considering buying a new car."
* Example: "Please consider my suggestion before making a decision."
2. To regard as: This meaning implies that you view something in a particular way, or that you believe something to be true.
* Example: "I consider myself to be a good friend."
* Example: "The city council is considering the new zoning plan."
3. To take into account: This meaning implies that you are acknowledging something and factoring it into your thinking.
* Example: "You should consider the weather before planning your trip."
* Example: "The company must consider the safety of its employees."
4. To deem or judge: This meaning implies that you are forming an opinion about something based on your own standards.
* Example: "The judge considered the evidence before making a decision."
* Example: "I consider this book to be a masterpiece."
Other variations:
* "Consider it done": This phrase means that you will do something without any further discussion.
* "Consider yourself warned": This phrase means that you are being cautioned about the consequences of your actions.
In summary, "consider" is a versatile verb that can be used in various contexts to express different meanings related to thinking, judging, and acknowledging something.