What is consideration? Pronunciation and usage in English

consideration means . Learn how to pronounce and use consideration through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of consideration

considerationnoun

/kənˌsɪdəˈreɪʃn/
Definition & pronunciation of consideration

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "consideration." It's a tricky one! Here's a breakdown with phonetic transcription and tips:

1. Phonetic Transcription (IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet):

/ˌkənˌsɪd·əˈraɪʃən/

Let's break this down syllable by syllable:

  • con: /kən/ (Similar to "con" in "consonant") - Short "uh" sound
  • sid: /ˌsɪd/ (Like "seed") - Stress is on this syllable.
  • er: /ər/ – This is the “er” sound, like in “her” or “stir”. It’s a short, unstressed sound.
  • a: /ə/ – This is a schwa sound, a very short, neutral “uh” sound. It's often relaxed.
  • tion: /ʃən/ – This is the tricky part! It sounds like "shun" but with a slightly more open “uh” sound at the end.

2. Putting it Together – A Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. "Con": Say "con" – like "con" in "concert".
  2. "Sid": Say "seed" – make the stress here.
  3. "er": Say a short, quick "er" sound, like the "er" in "her".
  4. "a": Say a very relaxed, almost silent "uh" sound – think of the "a" in "about".
  5. "tion": This is the key! Say "shun" – almost like “shun” but with a slightly wider “uh” sound at the end.

3. Tips for Pronunciation:

  • Stress: The primary stress is on the second syllable: “sid.” This is crucial.
  • Schwa Sound: The “a” is a schwa. Don't try to force it to be a long "a" sound. Keep it relaxed.
  • "Shun" Sound: Really focus on getting that "shun" at the end. It's not just "shun," it has that open “uh” quality.
  • Listen to Native Speakers: The best way to learn is to hear it pronounced correctly. You can find many examples online:

Example of a good pronunciation: "Con-SID-er-ay-shun" (with the emphasis on "SID")

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you more examples of words with similar sounds?

Usage and examples with the word consideration in English

Let's break down how to use the word "consideration" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with several different meanings! Here's a breakdown, categorized for clarity:

1. As a Noun - Meaning "Thoughtfulness" or "Attention":

  • Most Common Usage: This is the most frequent way "consideration" is used. It refers to being thoughtful, showing respect, and taking someone else's feelings into account.

    • Example: “He showed great consideration for her feelings when sharing the news.”
    • Example: "I appreciate your consideration in offering to help."
    • Synonyms: thoughtfulness, regard, kindness, attentiveness, sensitivity.

  • As a polite gesture: Offering something as a sign of respect or goodwill.

    • Example: "I'd like to make a small consideration to thank you for your hospitality." (Suggesting a small gift or token of appreciation)

2. As a Noun - Meaning "Something Given or Agreed Upon":

  • Payment or Reward: This refers to something given in exchange for something else – like a price, a bonus, or a favor.

    • Example: “The consideration for the car was $20,000.” (The price)
    • Example: “He received a bonus as a consideration for his hard work.”
    • Synonyms: payment, payment in kind, recompense.

  • A Factor in a Decision: A point to be taken into account.

    • Example: "The lawyer outlined all the considerations before advising his client." (Things to think about)
    • Example: "Cost is a key consideration when choosing a new car."

3. As a Noun - Meaning "A Formal Agreement or Contract":

  • Legal or Business Context: In this sense, it refers to a formal document outlining the terms of an agreement. It's often used in legal documents.
    • Example: “The consideration in the contract was the delivery of the goods by a specific date.”
    • Synonyms: agreement, contract, terms.

4. As a Verb – (Less Common):

  • To Take into Account: To think about something carefully before making a decision.
    • Example: “Please consider my suggestion before making a final decision.”
    • Synonyms: think about, contemplate, reflect on.

Here’s a table summarizing the different usages:

Usage Meaning Example
Noun (Thought) Thoughtfulness, respect, attentiveness “He showed consideration for her.”
Noun (Payment) Payment, reward, something exchanged “The consideration for the service was $50.”
Noun (Factor) A point to be weighed in a decision “Cost is a key consideration.”
Noun (Contract) A formal legal agreement “The consideration included royalties.”
Verb To think about carefully “Please consider my proposal.”

Tips for Using "Consideration" Correctly:

  • Context is key: Pay attention to the surrounding words to understand which meaning is intended.
  • Don't overuse it: While it’s a valuable word, using it too frequently can make your writing sound clunky.

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of writing are you working on (e.g., formal essay, casual email, creative writing)?
  • Can you provide a sentence or paragraph where you’re considering using the word “consideration”?

Synonyms for the word consideration

Idioms of the word consideration

in consideration of something
(formal)as payment for something
  • a small sum in consideration of your services
on mature reflection/consideration
(formal)after thinking about something carefully and for a long time
    take something into consideration
    to think about and include a particular thing or fact when you are forming an opinion or making a decision
    • The candidates' experience and qualifications will be taken into consideration when the decision is made.
    • Taking everything into consideration, the event was a great success.

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