consideration
UK[kənˌsɪdəˈreɪʃn]US[kənˌsɪdəˈreɪʃn]
n
The act of thinking carefully about something.
n
A fact or a subject that must be thought about when making a decision.
n
Kind and thoughtful regard for others.
Morpheme Breakdown
con
sider
ation
con
with, together, thoroughly
sider
star, constellation
ation
Etymology
The word 'consideration' originates from the Latin verb considerare, meaning "to look at closely, observe, contemplate". This verb itself is composed of the intensive prefix con- and the root sider-, from sidus (star). The literal sense was "to observe the stars", reflecting the ancient practice of astrology where one would carefully study the heavens for guidance. Over time, the meaning broadened from this specific act of celestial observation to the general process of careful, reflective thought. The suffix -ation was added to form the noun, solidifying its modern abstract meanings related to the process of thinking, factors to be weighed, and thoughtful regard for others.
Analysis
Structure: con + sider + ation
- con: Latin origin, a prefix meaning "with, together, thoroughly".
- sider: Latin origin, from sidus (genitive sideris) meaning "star, constellation".
- ation: Latin origin, a noun-forming suffix indicating an action or process, or its result.
Examples
After careful consideration, we decided to accept the offer.
Cost is a major consideration for any new project.
He showed great consideration for his elderly neighbors.