Common Mistakes When Using ‘consider’ in a Sentence

The verb consider is one of the most frequently misused words in English. The core mistake is treating it like a simple synonym for “think about” without understanding its grammatical patterns. To use consider correctly, remember this rule: it is almost never followed directly by an infinitive (to + verb). Instead, it takes a noun phrase, a gerund (verb + -ing), or a clause. This guide will walk you through the most common errors, show you the correct structures, and give you the confidence to use consider naturally in writing and conversation.

Quick Answer: How to Use ‘consider’ Correctly

Use consider in these three main patterns:

• Consider + noun/pronoun: “I will consider your offer.”
• Consider + gerund (verb + -ing): “She is considering moving to a new city.”
• Consider + clause (that/what/whether): “We need to consider whether this is the best option.”

Avoid: “I consider to go” (incorrect). Use “I consider going” or “I am considering going.”

Mistake #1: Using ‘consider’ + infinitive

This is the most common error. Many learners translate directly from their native language and write sentences like “I consider to study abroad.” This is grammatically incorrect in standard English.

Incorrect vs. Correct

• Incorrect: He considers to change his job.
• Correct: He considers changing his job.
• Incorrect: They are considering to buy a house.
• Correct: They are considering buying a house.

Why this happens

Verbs like want, hope, and plan are followed by an infinitive (e.g., “I want to go”). However, consider belongs to a different group of verbs that require a gerund. Other verbs in this group include suggest, recommend, and avoid.

Mistake #2: Forgetting the object after ‘consider’

Consider is a transitive verb, meaning it almost always needs a direct object. You cannot simply say “I am considering” without explaining what you are considering.

Incorrect vs. Correct

• Incorrect: I am considering. (The listener will ask “Considering what?”)
• Correct: I am considering your proposal.
• Incorrect: She considered and then decided.
• Correct: She considered the options and then decided.

When is it acceptable to omit the object?

In very informal conversation, you might hear “I’ll consider it” shortened to “I’ll consider,” but this is rare and can sound incomplete. Always include the object in writing and formal speech.

Mistake #3: Confusing ‘consider as’ with ‘consider’

Many learners add as after consider when it is not needed. The verb consider can directly link to a noun or adjective that describes the object.

Incorrect vs. Correct

• Incorrect: I consider him as a friend.
• Correct: I consider him a friend.
• Incorrect: They consider the project as a success.
• Correct: They consider the project a success.

When is ‘consider as’ acceptable?

You can use consider as when you mean “to examine or think about something in a particular role.” For example: “We should consider this as a learning opportunity.” However, in most cases where you are expressing an opinion or judgment, drop the as.

Comparison Table: ‘consider’ vs. Similar Verbs

Natural Examples of ‘consider’ in Context

Here are examples that show how consider is used in different situations, from formal emails to casual conversation.

Formal / Email Context

• “Please consider my application for the position.”
• “We will consider all proposals submitted before the deadline.”
• “The committee is considering whether to approve the budget.”

Informal / Conversation Context

• “Have you considered taking a break this weekend?”
• “I’m considering getting a new phone.”
• “Consider it done.” (idiomatic, meaning “I will handle it”)

Writing / Academic Context

• “The study considers the effects of social media on teenagers.”
• “We must consider the long-term consequences of this decision.”

Common Mistakes at a Glance

Here is a quick reference of what to avoid:

• Mistake: “I consider to apply.” → Fix: “I consider applying.”
• Mistake: “She considered as a good leader.” → Fix: “She considered him a good leader.”
• Mistake: “We are considering.” → Fix: “We are considering the offer.”
• Mistake: “He considered that she is right.” (clunky) → Better: “He considered her right.” or “He considered that she was right.” (acceptable but less common)

Better Alternatives to ‘consider’

Sometimes consider is not the best word for what you want to say. Here are alternatives depending on the nuance:

• Think about: More casual and common in conversation. “I’ll think about it.”
• Evaluate: More formal, used when analyzing pros and cons. “We need to evaluate the risks.”
• Weigh: Used when comparing options. “She weighed her options carefully.”
• Contemplate: Suggests deep, thoughtful consideration. “He contemplated a career change.”
• Regard: Used with as for opinions. “I regard her as an expert.”

Mini Practice: Test Your Understanding

Choose the correct option for each sentence. Answers are below.

1. She is considering _______ a new language.
   • A) to learn
   • B) learning
   • C) learn
2. We _______ him a valuable team member.
   • A) consider as
   • B) consider
   • C) consider to be
3. Have you considered _______ your car?
   • A) to sell
   • B) selling
   • C) sell
4. The manager will consider _______ the proposal.
   • A) to approve
   • B) approving
   • C) approve

Answers

1. B) learning – “Consider” takes a gerund.
2. B) consider – No “as” needed when expressing an opinion.
3. B) selling – Gerund after “consider.”
4. B) approving – Gerund after “consider.”

FAQ: Common Questions About ‘consider’

1. Can I say “I consider that he is wrong”?

Yes, but it sounds formal and a bit old-fashioned. In modern English, it is more common to say “I consider him wrong” or “I think he is wrong.” The “that” clause is grammatically correct but less natural in everyday speech.

2. Is “consider as” ever correct?

Yes, but only when you mean “to examine in the role of.” For example: “Consider this as a warning.” However, when expressing an opinion (e.g., “I consider him a friend”), do not use “as.”

3. What is the difference between “consider” and “think about”?

“Consider” is slightly more formal and implies a careful, deliberate process. “Think about” is more general and can be used for casual thoughts. For example: “I’m thinking about dinner” (casual) vs. “I’m considering the budget proposal” (formal).

4. Can “consider” be used in the passive voice?

Yes. For example: “He is considered an expert in his field.” This is a very common and natural use of the word. Note that no “as” is needed: “He is considered an expert” (not “considered as an expert”).

Final Tips for Using ‘consider’

To master this verb, remember these three points:

• Never use “consider to” – always use “consider + gerund” or “consider + noun.”
• Drop the “as” when expressing an opinion about someone or something.
• Always include an object after “consider” unless the context is very clear.

For more help with common English errors, explore our Common Usage Mistakes section. If you have questions about this guide, please contact us. You can also review our Editorial Policy to understand how we create our content.