to consider
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to consider
To think carefully and thoroughly about a possibility, plan, or decision, often by weighing the arguments for and against it.
Wir erwägen ernsthaft, uns ein Elektroauto zu kaufen.
We are seriously considering buying an electric car.
The verb 'erwägen' (to consider) is related to 'wiegen' (to weigh) and 'Waage' (scale). Figuratively, it describes weighing arguments or possibilities in your mind like weights on a scale. The prefix 'er-' makes the verb inseparable.
Sie hat die Vor- und Nachteile sorgfältig gegeneinander erwogen.
She carefully weighed the pros and cons against each other.
'Erwägen' (to consider) is often followed either by a noun in the accusative, an infinitive construction with 'zu' (to), or a subordinate clause with 'ob' (whether).
Die Firma erwägt einen Umzug.
The company is considering a move.
'Erwägen' (to consider) belongs to elevated language and is often used in formal or written contexts. It expresses a more careful and thorough thought process.
Das Gericht wird die neuen Beweise in seiner Entscheidung erwägen.
The court will consider the new evidence in its decision.
Common combinations are 'ernsthaft erwägen' (to seriously consider), 'einen Plan erwägen' (to consider a plan), 'eine Alternative erwägen' (to consider an alternative), or 'rechtliche Schritte erwägen' (to consider legal action).
Wir erwägen ernsthaft, das Angebot anzunehmen.
We are seriously considering accepting the offer.
to think
Thinking of doing something can mean that it occurs to you as a possibility. Erwägen is more formal and more clearly shows that you are carefully considering the action as a real option and weighing its advantages and disadvantages.
Ich erwäge, nächstes Jahr wegen der Arbeit umzuziehen.
I’m considering moving next year because of my job.
Ich denke daran, nächstes Jahr wegen der Arbeit umzuziehen.
I’m thinking of moving next year because of my job.
