considerably
UK[kənˈsɪd(ə)rəbli]US[kənˈsɪd(ə)rəbli]
adv
By a notably large amount or to a notably large extent; significantly.
Morpheme Breakdown
consider
able
ly
consider
able
capable of, worthy of
ly
in a manner of
Etymology
The adverb 'considerably' is built upon the verb 'consider', which originates from the Latin considerare, a compound likely meaning "to observe the stars" (from con- "with" + sidus "star"), metaphorically evolving to signify careful contemplation. The addition of the suffix -able creates the adjective 'considerable', meaning "worthy of consideration" or "significant in size or amount". Finally, the adverbial suffix -ly transforms it to describe an action performed to a significant degree. Thus, the word's journey reflects a shift from literal astronomical observation to abstract thought, and finally to a quantitative measure of extent.
Analysis
Structure: consider + able + ly
- consider: From Latin considerare (to examine, contemplate). The root sense is of careful thought.
- able: From Latin -abilis, an adjective-forming suffix meaning "capable of, worthy of".
- ly: From Old English -lice, an adverb-forming suffix meaning "in a manner of".
Examples
The project's cost has increased considerably since the initial estimate.
Her health improved considerably after starting the new treatment.
This model is considerably more efficient than its predecessor.