Take into Account vs. Taking into Consideration

Attribute	Take into Account	Taking into Consideration
Definition	Consider or regard (someone or something) as being important or acceptable in a particular situation.	Think about or be mindful of (something) in order to make a decision.
Usage	Commonly used in formal contexts.	Can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
Formality	More formal in tone.	Can be used in a less formal manner.
Implication	Implies a more deliberate and conscious consideration.	Implies a broader and more encompassing consideration.

Definition

When it comes to decision-making and problem-solving, two common phrases that are often used are "take into account" and "taking into consideration." Both phrases are used to indicate that something is being considered or included in the decision-making process. However, there are subtle differences between the two phrases that can impact how they are used in different contexts.

Usage

The phrase "take into account" is often used to acknowledge the importance or relevance of something in a decision-making process. For example, if you are planning a budget for a project, you might need to take into account various expenses such as materials, labor, and overhead costs. On the other hand, "taking into consideration" is used to indicate that something is being carefully thought about or evaluated before making a decision. For instance, when choosing a new supplier for your business, you might need to take into consideration factors such as price, quality, and reliability.

Implications

One key difference between "take into account" and "taking into consideration" is the level of depth or thoroughness implied by each phrase. When you take something into account, it suggests that you are simply acknowledging its existence or relevance without necessarily delving deeply into its implications. On the other hand, when you are taking something into consideration, it implies a more thoughtful and deliberate evaluation of the factors involved.

Context

Another factor to consider when choosing between "take into account" and "taking into consideration" is the context in which the phrases are being used. "Take into account" is often used in more formal or professional settings where brevity and clarity are important. In contrast, "taking into consideration" is often used in more casual or conversational contexts where a more nuanced or detailed discussion is appropriate.

Flexibility

While both phrases are commonly used in decision-making processes, "take into account" tends to be more straightforward and direct in its meaning. It is often used to quickly acknowledge a factor or consideration without getting bogged down in details. On the other hand, "taking into consideration" allows for a more flexible and nuanced approach to decision-making, as it implies a deeper level of thought and analysis.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the phrases "take into account" and "taking into consideration" are both valuable tools in decision-making and problem-solving. While they may seem similar at first glance, there are subtle differences in their implications and usage that can impact how they are perceived in different contexts. By understanding these differences, you can choose the most appropriate phrase to convey your thoughts and intentions effectively.