Translation guide
The English verb "consider" covers a range of mental actions: thinking about something carefully, regarding something in a certain way, taking something into account, or contemplating doing something. Japanese uses different verbs and patterns depending on the nuance.
To think about something carefully before making a decision or forming an opinion.
The most general verb for "think" or "consider." Used for pondering, deliberating, or weighing options.
Please consider the problem carefully.
More formal than 考える. Implies examining or scrutinizing a matter, often used in business or official contexts.
We will consider the proposal.
To consider deeply, ponder, or deliberate at length. Stronger and more literary than 考える.
He considered the offer carefully.
To have a particular opinion about someone or something; to think of in a specified way.
The standard pattern for "consider A (to be) B." The particle と marks the attribute or opinion.
To include something in your thinking when making a decision or judgment; to not ignore.
Literally "put into consideration." The most direct equivalent for "take into account."
To think about whether to do something; to have something as a possible plan.
Pattern for "consider whether to do X." かどうか embeds the yes/no question.
To be thoughtful about other people's emotions or situation.
Literally "consider someone's feelings." The most natural way to express empathy or thoughtfulness.
考える implies a more deliberate, logical thought process, while 思う is more spontaneous, emotional, or opinion-based. For 'consider' in the sense of weighing options, 考える is usually better. For 'I think that...' opinions, 思う is more natural.
I'll reply after considering it carefully.
He is considering changing jobs.
委員会は新しい規則を検討中です。
The committee is considering new regulations.
I consider him a friend.
She considered the result a failure.
More formal than 〜と考える. Often used in legal, official, or judgmental contexts. Implies treating something as equivalent to something else.
That act is considered a crime.
He is considered an expert.
Often used in the pattern 〜を〜と思う to express a personal, subjective view. Less formal than 考える.
I consider that to be correct.
We should consider his age.
I'll decide considering all factors.
The verb form of 考慮. Slightly more formal and often used in writing.
We need to consider safety.
Literally "put into one's head." A casual way to say "keep in mind" or "consider."
Consider that possibility too.
I'm considering whether to study abroad.
Expresses "I'm thinking of doing X" or "I'm considering doing X." The volitional form 〜よう + か + と思う conveys tentative intention.
I'm considering buying a new smartphone.
Formal pattern for "consider doing X." Used in business or official proposals.
We are considering updating the system.
Consider her feelings.
To be considerate, sympathetic, or to put oneself in another's shoes. A single verb capturing considerateness.
It's important to consider others.
To give consideration, to be mindful of, often used in formal contexts like customer service or policy.
Please consider the customers.
それはいい考えだと思う。
I think that's a good idea.
While 考慮する means 'consider,' it is formal and often used for taking factors into account. In everyday conversation, 考える or 検討する are more common for deliberating.
Have you considered my proposal?