considerable - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
considerable Word Meanings
- significant in amount or degree
- worth considering or attention
- large enough to be noticed or taken seriously
considerable Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
considerable Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kənˈsɪdərəbl/
US
/kənˈsɪdərəbəl/
considerable Word Etymology
considerable: con- (together) + siderare (to look at) from Latin. Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Memory image: Imagine looking at a vast landscape together with friends, where significant features stand out.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I grip the lid and push it open, finding a steady rhythm in my fingers. A considerable weight settles in my arms, and I shift my stance to keep the balance. I place the box down, hold it a moment, and adjust my grip as I count the pieces. If a task is considerable, you plan your steps, pace yourself, and keep your focus where it counts.
Real Context
Considerable describes something significant in amount, size, or degree, and it can also mean something worth considering or serious in importance. It carries a sense of measure that is large enough to be noticed, even if not extreme. Learners often confuse it with similar words like substantial, significant, or notable, but each carries slightly different emphasis: considerable stresses quantity or extent; substantial emphasizes importance or impact; notable highlights visibility or distinctness. The memory image of a landscape seen together with friends helps you imagine features that stand out; you notice them together, together deciding they deserve attention. Common errors include using considerable where substantial would fit, or misplacing it before nouns in other languages.
Usage Reminders
- Do not use with people; reserve for amounts and degrees. Avoid mixing with 'considerate.' Pair with 'increase,' 'change,' or 'amount' as needed. Not every large thing is 'considerable'—context matters. Compare with 'substantial' when the focus is impact or importance. Place before the noun: a considerable amount, a considerable delay.
Common Misconceptions
- It means 'polite' or 'considerate'.
- It only describes money.
- It can mean 'extremely' in all contexts.
- It is used with people.
- It synonyms with 'important' in every case.
Thinking Differences
Learners often feel English requires strict, binary judgments about quantity or importance. In English, considerable is common with both tangible amounts and abstract impacts; learners may over- or under-apply it, or mistake it for generous or polite language. Encourage comparing with substantial and significant to pick the right shade.
Learning Tips
- Compare with 'substantial' for emphasis on impact.
- Use with quantities: a considerable amount.
- Avoid using before adjectives that express quality instead of size.
- Notice the difference from 'considerate' (think about others).
- Record common collocations: considerable influence, considerable delay.
- Practice replacing with distinct words when nuance changes.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the best definition of 'considerable'?
A.Done with careful thought and attention to detail.
B.Fairly large in size, amount, or extent; significant.
C.Extremely small or unimportant.
D.Quickly and without delay.
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'considerable' correctly?
A.The project required a considerable amount of research before any conclusions could be drawn.
B.She was very considerable about her friend's feelings.
C.He considerable the advice and then left.
D.The price was considerable low compared to other stores.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar in meaning to 'considerable'?
A.capricious
B.minute
C.substantial
D.thoughtful
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is the opposite of 'considerable'?
A.insignificant
B.vast
C.substantial
D.ample
Step 5: Mastery
Which real-life context would be appropriate for using a word that means 'fairly large in size, amount, or importance'?
A.The new bridge collapsed after a small crack was found in a supporting beam.
B.The charity raised more than half a million dollars, enough to fund multiple community projects for years.
C.She left the meeting after two minutes because it was irrelevant to her work.
D.His collection of stamps includes one or two rare pieces among many common ones.
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