consideration
das Überlegen
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consideration
Thinking about a question, problem, or different possibilities in order to reach a decision or solution.
Nach langem Überlegen entschied sie sich für die günstigere Wohnung.
After giving it a lot of consideration, she decided on the more affordable apartment.
| gender | neuter das |
|---|---|
| genitive | des Überlegens |
| singular | plural | |
|---|---|---|
| nominative | das Überlegen | – |
| accusative | das Überlegen | – |
| dative | dem Überlegen | – |
| genitive | des Überlegens | – |
The article changes with the case; it is shown in colour.
„Überlegen“ (to think about / consider) is the infinitive of the verb „überlegen“ used as a noun. This allows the activity itself to become the subject of a sentence.
Das Überlegen fällt mir leichter, wenn es ruhig ist.
Thinking is easier for me when it's quiet.
„Nach kurzem Überlegen“ (after briefly considering it) or „nach längerem Überlegen“ (after giving it more thought) often introduces a decision or answer. The expression also shows how much time the thinking took.
Nach kurzem Überlegen sagte er die Teilnahme ab.
After giving it brief consideration, he canceled his participation.
A common collocation is „jemandem Zeit zum Überlegen lassen“ (to give someone time to think). The person is in the dative; the expression is especially suitable when someone does not have to make a decision immediately.
Die Vermieterin lässt uns bis morgen Zeit zum Überlegen.
The landlady is giving us until tomorrow to think it over.
