reconsider
UK[ˌriːkənˈsɪdə]US[ˌriːkənˈsɪdər]
v
To think about something again, especially in order to possibly change a previous decision or opinion.
v
To consider or discuss something again formally, as in a legislative or official body.
Morpheme Breakdown
re
consider
re
again
consider
think about
Etymology
The verb 'reconsider' is a transparent compound formed within English from the productive prefix 're-' and the existing verb 'consider'. The prefix 're-', derived from Latin, carries its core meaning of "again," signaling repetition. The base 'consider' entered English via Old French from the Latin considerare, which originally meant "to observe the stars" (sidus, sider- meaning "star, constellation") but evolved to mean "to examine, contemplate." Therefore, the literal morphemic logic of 'reconsider' is "to think about (something) again," a meaning that has remained consistent and clear from its formation to its modern abstract usage, often implying a willingness to alter a previous judgment.
Analysis
Structure: re (again) + consider (think about)
re: Latin origin, a prefix meaning "again" or "back."
consider: Latin origin, from considerare meaning "to observe, contemplate." In this word, it functions as the base verb meaning "to think about carefully."
Examples
After hearing their arguments, the judge decided to reconsider the ruling.
I urge you to reconsider your decision to leave the company.
The committee will reconsider the proposal at its next meeting.