Consider vs. Think

Attribute	Consider	Think
Definition	to think about carefully	to have a particular opinion, belief, or idea about someone or something
Process	involves weighing options and making a decision	involves mental activity and reasoning
Emotion	may involve empathy or sympathy	may involve personal feelings or biases
Outcome	often leads to a decision or action	may lead to a change in perspective or understanding

Definition

Consider and think are two verbs that are often used interchangeably in everyday language. However, there are subtle differences in their meanings and usage. Consider typically implies a more deliberate and careful thought process, while think is a more general term that can encompass a range of cognitive activities.

Usage

Consider is often used when weighing options or making decisions. For example, one might consider different factors before choosing a college to attend or a career to pursue. Think, on the other hand, can be used in a broader sense to refer to any mental activity, such as reflecting on a past event or imagining a future scenario.

Implications

When someone says they are considering something, it suggests that they are actively evaluating and analyzing the situation. This implies a deeper level of engagement with the topic at hand. On the other hand, saying that one is thinking about something may simply mean that the topic is on their mind, without necessarily implying a thorough examination.

Decision-making

Consider is often used in the context of decision-making processes. When faced with a difficult choice, one might carefully consider all the options before coming to a conclusion. This implies a systematic approach to problem-solving. Think, on the other hand, can be used more casually to refer to any mental activity, whether it leads to a decision or not.

Depth of Thought

Consideration typically involves a deeper level of thought than simply thinking about something. When someone considers a topic, they are likely to explore different perspectives, weigh the pros and cons, and make a conscious effort to arrive at a well-informed conclusion. Thinking, on the other hand, can be more spontaneous and less structured.

Emotional Impact

Consider can also imply an emotional component that is not necessarily present in the word think. When someone says they are considering a difficult decision, it may suggest that they are grappling with conflicting emotions or moral dilemmas. Thinking, on the other hand, may be more neutral in tone and not necessarily involve strong emotions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while consider and think are often used interchangeably, there are subtle differences in their meanings and implications. Consider typically implies a more deliberate and careful thought process, often in the context of decision-making. Think, on the other hand, is a more general term that can encompass a range of cognitive activities. Both words have their own nuances and can be used effectively depending on the context.