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considerable

A2 adjective #588 most common 13 min read

considerable

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips considerable in 30 Seconds

Explanation considerable in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'considerable' might seem like a big, difficult word, but you can understand it by thinking of it as a fancy way to say 'a lot' or 'very big.' Imagine you have a big bag of candies—that is a considerable amount of candy. If you walk for a long time, you walk a considerable distance. At this stage, you don't need to use the word yourself very often, but if you see it in a book, just remember it means 'large' or 'important.' It is like the word 'big,' but for adults and school. Think of it as 'enough to think about.' If something is small, you don't think about it much. If it is considerable, you have to think about it because it is big. For example, 'a considerable house' is a big house. 'A considerable time' is a long time. It's a good word to start recognizing because it shows up in many stories and news reports.

For A2 learners, 'considerable' is a useful adjective to describe things that are more than just 'big.' It helps you talk about quantities and importance more clearly. You can use it to describe a 'considerable amount' of money, time, or work. It is common in sentences like 'He has a considerable amount of work to do' or 'The city is a considerable distance from here.' At this level, you should start to notice how it is used with nouns. It almost always comes before the noun. It's also important to know that it's a formal word. If you use it, you sound more serious and smart. Just remember: considerable = big/much + important. If you want to tell your teacher you studied a lot, you could say, 'I spent a considerable amount of time studying for this test.' This sounds very good and professional!

At the B1 level, you should be able to use 'considerable' to add nuance to your descriptions. Instead of always using 'very' or 'really,' 'considerable' allows you to quantify things in a more objective way. It is particularly useful in business or academic contexts. For example, you might discuss 'considerable progress' in your English studies or 'considerable interest' in a new hobby. You should also be aware of the adverb form 'considerably,' which is used to describe changes. For instance, 'The weather has improved considerably.' At B1, you are expected to understand that 'considerable' implies that something is significant enough to have an effect. If there is a 'considerable difference' between two things, it means the difference is large enough that you cannot ignore it. This word helps you move away from simple adjectives toward more precise language.

By the B2 level, 'considerable' should be a regular part of your vocabulary, especially in writing. You should understand its collocations perfectly—knowing that we often say 'considerable effort,' 'considerable expense,' and 'considerable influence.' You should also be able to distinguish it from similar words like 'substantial' or 'significant.' At this level, you might use it to describe abstract concepts like 'considerable doubt' or 'considerable pressure.' You should also be careful not to confuse it with 'considerate' (kind). A B2 learner knows that 'considerable' is a versatile tool for summarizing the scale of a situation. For example, in an essay, you might write, 'Despite considerable opposition, the new law was passed.' This shows you can use the word to create complex, formal sentences that convey a clear sense of scale and conflict.

At the C1 level, you use 'considerable' with precision and stylistic flair. You understand the subtle differences between 'considerable,' 'appreciable,' and 'sizable.' You use 'considerable' to manage the tone of your writing, often using it to provide a measured, objective evaluation of a situation. For example, you might analyze 'the considerable impact of socio-economic factors on education.' You are also aware of its use in legal and academic jargon, where 'considerable' can have specific implications for evidence or research scope. At this level, you might use the word to create irony or understatement, or to emphasize the gravity of a situation in a sophisticated way. You understand that 'considerable' is not just about size, but about the 'weight' a concept carries in a discussion. Your use of the word is seamless and always contextually appropriate.

For C2 speakers, 'considerable' is a tool for fine-tuning the architecture of an argument. You use it to navigate complex discussions where the scale of a phenomenon must be acknowledged without being overly dramatic. You might use it in phrases like 'a man of considerable parts' (an old-fashioned way to say someone has many talents) or to describe 'considerable nuance' in a philosophical debate. You understand the word's etymological roots and how they inform its modern usage—that something 'considerable' is fundamentally 'worthy of being considered.' You can use it to balance sentences, providing a rhythmic and authoritative tone to your speech and writing. At this level, 'considerable' is more than just a synonym for 'large'; it is a marker of intellectual maturity and a deep command of the English language's formal registers.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

considerable in 30 Seconds

Considerable means large in size, amount, or importance, often used to describe things that are significant enough to be noticed or have an effect.
It is a formal adjective that is commonly paired with nouns like effort, time, money, influence, and progress to show scale.
It should not be confused with 'considerate,' which means kind or thoughtful; 'considerable' is about quantity and impact, not personality traits.
Using this word helps elevate your English from basic to professional, providing a precise way to say 'a lot' in serious contexts.

The word considerable is a powerful adjective used to describe something that is large in size, amount, or importance. When we say something is considerable, we mean it is not just 'some' or 'a little,' but rather enough to be noticed, measured, or to have a real effect on a situation. It sits in a middle-to-high ground of quantity and significance, often used when 'big' feels too simple and 'massive' feels too extreme. It implies that the subject is worthy of being 'considered' or thought about because of its scale. For example, if a company makes a considerable profit, it means the money they earned is significant enough to change their future plans or impress their investors. In daily life, you might use it to describe the amount of time you spent on a project or the distance between two cities. It is a versatile word that bridges the gap between physical measurements and abstract importance.

Size and Scale: Used to describe physical dimensions or quantities that are notably large, such as a considerable distance or a considerable sum of money.

The storm caused considerable damage to the coastal properties, requiring months of repair work.

Beyond physical size, considerable is frequently applied to abstract concepts like influence, effort, and progress. If someone has considerable influence in a community, their opinions carry weight and can change how others think. If a task requires considerable effort, it means it is not easy and will demand a lot of energy and focus. This word is a staple in formal writing, business reports, and academic discussions because it provides a professional way to quantify things without needing exact numbers. It allows a speaker to convey that something is 'a lot' while maintaining a sophisticated tone. In social contexts, it can also describe qualities in people, such as someone having considerable talent or considerable charm, suggesting that these traits are prominent and impactful.

Importance and Impact: Used to highlight the significance of an event, person, or decision that has a major effect on the surrounding environment.

She has gained considerable experience in the field of renewable energy over the last decade.

Historically, the word comes from the verb 'consider,' which means to look at or think about carefully. Thus, something 'considerable' is literally 'worthy of consideration.' In the 15th century, it was used more literally to mean 'capable of being considered,' but by the 17th century, it evolved into its modern meaning of 'worthy of regard' or 'of significant size.' Today, it is one of the most common adjectives in the English language for expressing scale in a polite and objective manner. Whether you are discussing a considerable increase in temperature or a considerable amount of homework, you are signaling to your listener that the topic is serious and substantial.

There is a considerable difference between the two models, despite their similar appearance.

Abstract Quantities: Applied to non-physical things like time, interest, or doubt to show they are present in a large degree.

After the announcement, there was considerable interest from international investors.

The project was completed with considerable difficulty due to the lack of funding.

Using considerable correctly involves placing it before a noun to modify its scale or importance. It is almost always used as an attributive adjective, meaning it comes directly before the thing it describes. For instance, 'considerable effort' or 'considerable time.' While it can be used after a linking verb (e.g., 'The amount was considerable'), this is less common than the direct modification of a noun. One of the key aspects of using this word is understanding its collocations—the words it naturally hangs out with. Common pairings include amount, number, degree, influence, and pressure. By using these standard pairings, your English will sound more natural and fluent.

Common Collocations: Pairing 'considerable' with nouns like 'amount,' 'effort,' 'expense,' 'interest,' and 'success' creates professional-sounding phrases.

The renovation of the old theater will involve considerable expense for the city council.

When you want to emphasize that something is very large, you can use adverbs to modify 'considerable,' though it is already a strong word. You might say 'quite considerable' or 'very considerable,' but 'considerable' on its own is usually sufficient to convey a high degree. It is also important to distinguish it from its adverb form, 'considerably.' While 'considerable' describes a noun, 'considerably' describes an action or another adjective (e.g., 'The price increased considerably'). Mastering the switch between these two forms is a hallmark of moving from intermediate to advanced English proficiency. In academic writing, 'considerable' is often used to introduce a significant finding or to acknowledge a large body of existing research.

Academic Usage: In research papers, use 'considerable' to describe the scope of a study or the significance of the data collected.

There is considerable evidence to suggest that sleep is vital for cognitive function.

In everyday conversation, 'considerable' can be used to add a touch of seriousness or to show respect for the scale of something. If a friend tells you they ran 20 miles, responding with 'That is a considerable distance!' shows that you recognize the magnitude of their achievement. It is more expressive than just saying 'That's a lot.' It also works well in professional emails. Instead of saying 'We have many problems,' saying 'We are facing considerable challenges' sounds more professional and focused. It shifts the focus from the quantity of problems to the weight and seriousness of the situation, which is often more effective in a business environment.

The team has made considerable progress on the software update this week.

Describing People: Use 'considerable' to describe a person's skills, reputation, or physical stature in a formal or respectful way.

The professor is a man of considerable intellect and reputation in the scientific community.

A considerable number of people attended the protest to voice their concerns.

You will encounter the word considerable in a variety of high-level contexts. It is a favorite in news broadcasts, especially when journalists are reporting on economics, politics, or natural disasters. For example, a news anchor might report that 'The government is under considerable pressure to lower taxes' or 'The earthquake caused considerable damage to the infrastructure.' In these cases, the word helps the audience understand the gravity of the situation without the reporter having to list every single detail immediately. It sets the stage for the importance of the news story. You will also hear it in documentaries, where narrators use it to describe the scale of historical events or natural phenomena, such as 'The migration of the wildebeest involves a considerable number of animals.'

In the News: Journalists use 'considerable' to summarize the scale of events, public sentiment, or economic shifts.

There has been considerable debate regarding the new environmental policy.

In the corporate world, 'considerable' is a staple of meetings and reports. Executives use it to describe market trends, budget requirements, and project timelines. If a manager says, 'We have invested a considerable amount of capital into this project,' they are signaling that the project is a high priority and that the company expects a significant return. It is also used in performance reviews, where a supervisor might note that an employee has shown 'considerable improvement' or possesses 'considerable potential.' In these professional settings, the word conveys a sense of objectivity and careful evaluation, which is highly valued in business communication. It avoids the emotional weight of words like 'amazing' or 'huge' while still being very positive or serious.

Business and Finance: Used to describe financial investments, market growth, and the level of risk or opportunity in a venture.

The company faces considerable competition from emerging tech startups in the region.

In literature and formal essays, 'considerable' is used to describe characters, settings, and themes. An author might describe a character as having 'considerable wealth' or a 'considerable reputation,' which immediately paints a picture of their social standing. In academic writing, you will see it in phrases like 'a considerable body of literature' or 'considerable evidence.' This usage helps researchers acknowledge that a topic has been studied extensively by many people. Even in legal contexts, a judge might refer to 'considerable doubt' or 'considerable evidence,' where the word takes on a precise meaning related to the standards of proof required in a courtroom. It is a word that carries weight wherever it is used.

The author wrote the novel over a considerable period of time, spanning nearly twenty years.

Academic and Legal: Used to define the scope of research or the weight of evidence in a formal, structured environment.

There is considerable overlap between the two theories, as both focus on social behavior.

The new law has caused considerable confusion among small business owners.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with considerable is confusing it with the word considerate. While they both come from the same root verb 'consider,' they have very different meanings. 'Considerable' refers to size or importance (e.g., a considerable amount of food), whereas 'considerate' refers to being kind and thinking about other people's feelings (e.g., a considerate neighbor). Mixing these up can lead to very confusing sentences. For example, saying 'He is a considerable person' might imply he is physically large or very important, while 'He is a considerate person' means he is thoughtful and nice. Always double-check which 'consider' adjective you need!

Considerable vs. Considerate: 'Considerable' = Large/Important. 'Considerate' = Kind/Thoughtful. They are not interchangeable.

Incorrect: It was very considerable of you to help me with my bags. (Should be: considerate)

Another common error is using 'considerable' to describe things that are inherently small or precise. Since 'considerable' implies a large, somewhat vague scale, it doesn't work well with specific, small measurements. You wouldn't say 'a considerable two inches' or 'a considerable three minutes' unless you were being ironic. It is better used for quantities that are large enough to be impressive or impactful. Additionally, some learners use 'considerable' as an adverb, saying things like 'He worked considerable hard.' This is grammatically incorrect; the adverb form is 'considerably.' So, you should say 'He worked considerably harder than before.' Remember: adjectives modify nouns, and adverbs modify verbs and other adjectives.

Overuse of 'Considerable': Avoid using 'considerable' for every large thing. Mix it up with synonyms like 'substantial' or 'significant' to keep your writing interesting.

Incorrect: The price is considerable higher today. (Should be: considerably)

Finally, be careful with the word's register. 'Considerable' is a relatively formal word. While it is perfectly fine to use in a conversation, using it too often in very casual settings (like hanging out with friends) might make you sound a bit stiff or overly serious. For example, saying 'There is a considerable amount of milk in the fridge' sounds a bit strange when 'There's plenty of milk' would do. Use it when you want to emphasize importance or when the context is professional, academic, or serious. Understanding the 'vibe' of the word helps you use it in a way that sounds natural to native speakers.

The athlete showed considerable restraint when faced with the reporter's rude questions.

Contextual Appropriateness: Matching the word 'considerable' to the right level of formality ensures you don't sound too formal in casual situations.

There was considerable excitement in the air before the concert began.

The new bridge required a considerable amount of steel and concrete to build.

When you want to describe something large or important, considerable is a great choice, but it is not the only one. Depending on the context, you might want to use a synonym that carries a slightly different nuance. For instance, substantial is very similar but often implies something solid, physical, or having a strong foundation. If you talk about a 'substantial meal,' it sounds filling and hearty. If you talk about a 'considerable meal,' it just sounds like there was a lot of food. Another common alternative is significant. While 'considerable' focuses on the amount or size, 'significant' focuses on the meaning or the result. A 'significant change' is one that matters a lot, whereas a 'considerable change' is one that is large in scale.

Substantial vs. Considerable: 'Substantial' often refers to physical mass or financial value, while 'considerable' is more general for size and importance.

The company received a substantial investment from a private equity firm.

Other words you might consider include sizable, appreciable, and notable. 'Sizable' is a bit more informal and usually refers to physical dimensions (e.g., a sizable garden). 'Appreciable' is used when something is large enough to be measured or noticed, often used in scientific or technical contexts (e.g., an appreciable difference in temperature). 'Notable' is used when something is worthy of being noted or noticed because it is unusual or important (e.g., a notable achievement). Choosing the right word depends on whether you want to emphasize the physical size, the importance, the measurability, or the fact that it stands out from the crowd.

Sizable vs. Appreciable: 'Sizable' is great for physical objects; 'appreciable' is best for changes or differences that can be detected.

There was an appreciable drop in noise levels after the new windows were installed.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, antonyms for 'considerable' include insignificant, negligible, minor, and slight. If a change is 'negligible,' it is so small that it doesn't really matter or isn't worth worrying about. If a problem is 'minor,' it is small and easily fixed. Using these antonyms correctly helps you provide contrast in your writing. For example, 'While the cost was considerable, the benefits were negligible.' This sentence uses both ends of the scale to show that the investment wasn't worth it. Mastering both the synonyms and antonyms of 'considerable' will give you a much more nuanced and effective vocabulary for describing the world around you.

The difference in price between the two brands is negligible, so choose the one you prefer.

Notable vs. Minor: Use 'notable' for things that deserve attention and 'minor' for things that are small and unimportant.

The scientist made a notable discovery that changed the way we understand biology.

The team put in considerable hours to ensure the project was finished on time.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

The root word 'consider' actually comes from the Latin 'sidus' (genitive 'sideris'), meaning 'star.' In ancient times, 'considering' something meant looking at the stars to find an omen or a sign before making a decision!

Pronunciation Guide

UK /kənˈsɪd.ər.ə.bəl/

US /kənˈsɪd.ɚ.ə.bəl/

The primary stress is on the second syllable: con-SID-er-a-ble.

Rhymes With

deliverable miserable venerable tolerable utterable severable alterable measurable

Common Errors

Stressing the first syllable (CON-sid-er-able).
Forgetting the 'er' sound in the middle (con-sid-ra-ble).
Pronouncing the 'a' in the fourth syllable too clearly (it should be a schwa /ə/).
Confusing the ending with '-ably' (the adverb form).
Mixing up the word with 'considerate'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Easy to recognize in context as it usually modifies a noun to mean 'large'.

Writing 4/5

Requires knowledge of formal register and correct collocations to use naturally.

Speaking 4/5

Learners often default to 'a lot' or 'big' instead of this more professional term.

Listening 3/5

Common in news and documentaries, usually clear to hear.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

big large much important consider

Learn Next

substantial significant appreciable notable considerably

Advanced

magnitude extent profound consequential momentous

Grammar to Know

Adjective Placement

Always place 'considerable' before the noun it modifies (e.g., considerable progress).

Adjective vs. Adverb

Use 'considerable' for nouns and 'considerably' for verbs/adjectives (e.g., a considerable increase vs. increased considerably).

Uncountable Nouns

When using 'considerable' with uncountable nouns, use 'amount' (e.g., a considerable amount of water).

Countable Nouns

When using 'considerable' with countable nouns, use 'number' (e.g., a considerable number of people).

Formal Register

Avoid using 'considerable' in very informal slang contexts to maintain a consistent tone.

Examples by Level

He has a considerable amount of toys.

He has many toys.

Adjective 'considerable' modifies the noun 'amount'.

It is a considerable walk to the park.

The park is far away.

Used to describe a distance that feels long.

She has considerable talent in drawing.

She is very good at drawing.

Describes a quality (talent) as being large or impressive.

There is considerable snow on the ground.

There is a lot of snow.

Modifies the uncountable noun 'snow'.

The dog is of considerable size.

The dog is very big.

Used in the phrase 'of considerable size' to mean very large.

We spent a considerable time at the zoo.

We stayed at the zoo for a long time.

Modifies 'time' to show duration.

The cake was of considerable height.

The cake was very tall.

Describes physical dimension (height).

He made a considerable mistake.

He made a big mistake.

Describes the importance or scale of an error.

The project took a considerable amount of effort.

The project was hard work.

Common collocation: 'considerable amount of effort'.

There is a considerable difference between the two cars.

The two cars are very different.

Used to compare two things.

She earned a considerable sum of money last year.

She made a lot of money.

'Sum' is a formal word for an amount of money.

The house needs considerable repairs.

The house needs many things fixed.

Modifies the plural noun 'repairs'.

They have a considerable influence on the local community.

They are important people in the town.

Describes abstract power or impact.

A considerable number of students failed the exam.

Many students did not pass.

Common phrase: 'a considerable number of'.

The journey was of considerable length.

The trip was very long.

Formal way to say the trip was long.

He has gained considerable experience in his job.

He has learned a lot at work.

Modifies 'experience' to show a high level of skill.

The company has made considerable progress in reducing waste.

The company has done a lot to be greener.

Used with 'progress' to show significant improvement.

There was considerable interest in the new product launch.

Many people wanted to see the new product.

Describes a high level of public attention.

The new law caused considerable confusion among the public.

People didn't understand the new law.

Describes the scale of a negative reaction.

He spent a considerable portion of his life traveling.

He traveled for many years of his life.

Modifies 'portion' to show a large part of something.

The damage to the car was considerable.

The car was badly damaged.

Used as a predicative adjective after the verb 'was'.

She has a considerable reputation as a scientist.

Many people know she is a great scientist.

Describes the level of someone's fame or status.

The project will require considerable financial backing.

The project needs a lot of money to start.

Modifies 'backing' (support).

There is considerable evidence that the climate is changing.

There are many facts showing the climate is changing.

Common in academic and scientific contexts.

The CEO's resignation caused considerable upheaval within the company.

The boss leaving caused a lot of trouble and change.

Describes a large-scale disruption.

The athlete showed considerable restraint in not responding to the hecklers.

The player stayed calm even when people were shouting at him.

Describes a high degree of self-control.

There is a considerable overlap between the two academic disciplines.

The two subjects share many of the same ideas.

Used to describe how much two things have in common.

The expansion of the airport will be at a considerable cost to the environment.

Building more of the airport will hurt nature a lot.

Used in the phrase 'at a considerable cost to'.

He possesses considerable expertise in the field of cybersecurity.

He knows a huge amount about protecting computers.

More formal than 'knows a lot'.

The findings of the study are of considerable significance.

What the study found is very important.

Formal structure: 'of considerable [noun]'.

The team faced considerable odds but managed to win the championship.

It was very unlikely they would win, but they did.

Refers to the difficulty or low probability of success.

There has been considerable debate over the ethics of AI.

Many people have been arguing about whether AI is right or wrong.

Describes the intensity and scale of a discussion.

The diplomat exercised considerable finesse in navigating the delicate negotiations.

The diplomat was very skillful and careful during the talks.

Describes a high level of skill in a difficult situation.

The historical document is of considerable antiquity and requires careful handling.

The old paper is very, very old and important.

Formal way to say something is very old.

Her arguments were backed by a considerable body of empirical evidence.

Her ideas were supported by a lot of real-world facts.

Academic phrase: 'a considerable body of evidence'.

The city has undergone considerable transformation since the industrial revolution.

The city has changed completely and in a big way.

Describes a total and significant change.

There is considerable latitude in how the new regulations can be interpreted.

There are many different ways to understand the new rules.

'Latitude' here means freedom or scope for interpretation.

The author writes with considerable wit and social insight.

The writer is very funny and understands people well.

Describes the quality of someone's creative work.

The task was accomplished with considerable dispatch.

The job was finished very quickly and efficiently.

'Dispatch' here means speed and efficiency.

He is a man of considerable means, owning several estates across Europe.

He is very rich.

Idiomatic phrase: 'a man of [considerable] means'.

The sheer scale of the project presented considerable logistical hurdles.

The project was so big it was very hard to organize.

Describes complex organizational challenges.

The philosopher’s work has exerted considerable influence on modern existentialist thought.

The thinker's ideas changed how people think about life today.

Describes deep and lasting intellectual impact.

The witness's testimony was given considerable weight by the jury.

The jury thought what the witness said was very important.

Legal phrase: 'to give weight to something'.

There is a considerable degree of ambiguity in the treaty’s final clauses.

The last parts of the agreement are very unclear.

Describes a high level of uncertainty or lack of clarity.

The company’s success is due in considerable measure to its innovative marketing strategy.

The company did well mostly because of its new way of selling.

Phrase: 'in considerable measure' (to a large extent).

The restoration of the cathedral was a task of considerable magnitude.

Fixing the big church was a huge and important job.

Refers to the great size or importance of a task.

He approached the problem with considerable gravitas.

He dealt with the problem in a very serious and dignified way.

'Gravitas' refers to seriousness and dignity.

The policy was met with considerable skepticism by the economic community.

Experts did not believe the new plan would work.

Describes a high level of doubt or disbelief.

Synonyms

significant substantial sizable large noteworthy great

Antonyms

small insignificant minor

Common Collocations

considerable amount

considerable effort

considerable influence

considerable progress

considerable expense

considerable interest

considerable damage

considerable distance

considerable success

considerable pressure

Common Phrases

of considerable size

— Very large in physical dimensions. Used to describe objects or animals.

The package was of considerable size and weight.

to a considerable extent

— Mostly or largely. Used to show how much something is true.

I agree with you to a considerable extent.

in considerable detail

— Giving a lot of information. Used when explaining or describing something thoroughly.

The report explains the plan in considerable detail.

at considerable cost

— Involving a lot of money or a big sacrifice. Used for expensive or difficult actions.

The war was won at considerable cost to the nation.

considerable body of

— A large collection of something, usually work or evidence. Common in academic writing.

There is a considerable body of evidence supporting this theory.

considerable number of

— Many. A formal way to say 'a lot of' for countable things.

A considerable number of people attended the meeting.

considerable period of time

— A long time. Used to describe duration formally.

He lived abroad for a considerable period of time.

considerable degree of

— A large amount of a quality or feeling. Used for abstract nouns.

There is a considerable degree of risk involved.

considerable skill

— A high level of ability. Used to praise someone's talent.

She played the violin with considerable skill.

considerable reputation

— Being very well-known and respected. Used for famous people or institutions.

The university has a considerable reputation for research.

Often Confused With

considerable vs considerate

Means kind and thoughtful. 'He is a considerate person' (nice). 'He is a considerable person' (important/large).

considerable vs considering

A preposition meaning 'taking into account.' 'Considering the weather, we stayed home.'

considerable vs considered

An adjective meaning 'carefully thought about.' 'This was a considered decision.'

Idioms & Expressions

"a man of considerable parts"

— A person who has many different skills, talents, or abilities. This is a somewhat old-fashioned but very respectful idiom.

Our new CEO is a man of considerable parts, being an engineer, an artist, and a pilot.

Formal/Literary

"give considerable weight to"

— To consider something to be very important when making a decision. Often used in legal or professional contexts.

The judge gave considerable weight to the witness's testimony.

Formal

"to a considerable degree"

— Largely or significantly. It functions as an adverbial phrase to show the extent of something.

The success of the project depends, to a considerable degree, on our teamwork.

Neutral/Formal

"at considerable length"

— For a long time and with a lot of detail. Usually refers to speaking or writing.

The professor spoke at considerable length about the history of Rome.

Formal

"considerable means"

— Having a lot of money and wealth. 'Means' here refers to financial resources.

She is a woman of considerable means and donates heavily to charity.

Formal

"take considerable pains to"

— To make a very great effort to do something correctly or well.

The chef took considerable pains to ensure the presentation was perfect.

Formal

"in considerable measure"

— To a large extent; largely because of something.

The victory was due in considerable measure to the captain's leadership.

Formal

"with considerable dispatch"

— Doing something very quickly and efficiently.

The emergency services handled the situation with considerable dispatch.

Formal

"of considerable antiquity"

— Very old and historically significant.

The coins found in the garden were of considerable antiquity.

Formal/Literary

"exert considerable pressure"

— To use a lot of influence or force to make someone do something.

The lobby group exerted considerable pressure on the politicians.

Formal

Easily Confused

considerable vs substantial

Both mean large or important.

Substantial often implies something physical, solid, or having a strong foundation. Considerable is more general and can be used for abstract things like 'interest' or 'doubt' more easily.

A substantial building (solid). A considerable interest (large amount).

considerable vs significant

Both describe things that matter.

Significant focuses on the meaning or the result of something. Considerable focuses more on the size or amount. A significant change is one that matters; a considerable change is one that is big.

A significant discovery (important). A considerable amount of data (large).

considerable vs sizable

Both mean large.

Sizable is more informal and almost always refers to physical size or a count of items. Considerable is more formal and used for abstract concepts.

A sizable crowd (many people). Considerable influence (abstract power).

considerable vs appreciable

Both mean large enough to notice.

Appreciable is usually used for things that can be measured or detected, often in technical contexts. Considerable is used for things that are impressive or important.

An appreciable difference in weight. Considerable success in business.

considerable vs great

Both mean large.

Great is a general word that can also mean 'excellent.' Considerable is more specific to size and importance and is much more formal.

A great movie (excellent). A considerable distance (far).

Sentence Patterns

There is a considerable [noun] between [A] and [B].

There is a considerable difference between the two books.

It takes a considerable amount of [noun] to [verb].

It takes a considerable amount of time to learn a language.

He/She has made considerable progress in [activity].

She has made considerable progress in her piano lessons.

The [event] caused considerable [noun].

The storm caused considerable damage to the trees.

To a considerable extent, [clause].

To a considerable extent, the plan was a success.

There is considerable interest in [topic].

There is considerable interest in the new space mission.

The [noun] is of considerable [abstract noun].

The discovery is of considerable importance to science.

In considerable measure, the [result] was due to [cause].

In considerable measure, the victory was due to luck.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

It is a very common word in written English, appearing frequently in newspapers, textbooks, and business reports.

Common Mistakes

He is a very considerable person. → He is a very considerate person.
The speaker likely means the person is kind (considerate), not large or important (considerable).
The price increased considerable. → The price increased considerably.
You need the adverb form 'considerably' to describe the verb 'increased'.
I have a considerable work to do. → I have a considerable amount of work to do.
'Work' is uncountable, so you should use 'amount of' with 'considerable'.
There was a considerable two people there. → There were only two people there.
'Considerable' is used for large amounts, not specific small numbers like 'two'.
It was considerable of you to help. → It was considerate of you to help.
Helping someone is a kind act, so 'considerate' is the correct word.

Tips

Adjective vs. Adverb

Always use 'considerable' to describe a thing (noun) and 'considerably' to describe an action (verb). This is the most common mistake learners make.

Upgrade 'A Lot'

Whenever you want to write 'a lot of' in a formal essay, try replacing it with 'a considerable amount of' or 'a considerable number of'. It instantly makes your writing sound more academic.

The 'Consider' Rule

To remember the spelling, just write the verb 'consider' and add the suffix '-able'. Don't drop any letters!

Avoid Overuse

While 'considerable' is a great word, don't use it in every sentence. Mix it up with synonyms like 'substantial' or 'significant' to keep your reader interested.

Stress the 'SID'

Make sure you put the emphasis on the second syllable. Saying con-SID-er-able correctly will make you sound much more like a native speaker.

Formal Situations

Save 'considerable' for business meetings, school papers, or serious discussions. In a casual chat with friends, it might sound a bit too formal.

Pairing with Progress

If you want to impress your boss or teacher, tell them you have made 'considerable progress' on your work. It sounds much better than 'I've done a lot'.

Look for the Noun

When you see 'considerable' in a text, look at the noun that follows it. That noun is the most important thing in the sentence.

Use for Emphasis

Use 'considerable' to show that you are taking a topic seriously. It adds weight and importance to whatever you are talking about.

The 'Consider' Connection

Remember that something 'considerable' is 'worthy of being considered.' If it's small, you don't need to consider it!

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of the word 'Consider.' If something is 'Consider-able,' it is 'able' to be 'considered' because it is so big or important that you can't ignore it.

Visual Association

Imagine a giant elephant standing in a small room. You have to 'consider' the elephant because it takes up a 'considerable' amount of space.

Word Web

Big Large Significant Substantial Important Much Great Sizable

Challenge

Try to use 'considerable' in three different sentences today: one about time, one about money, and one about an abstract quality like talent or effort.

Word Origin

The word 'considerable' entered the English language in the mid-15th century. It is derived from the French word 'considérable' and directly from the Medieval Latin 'considerabilis.' The root of the word is the Latin verb 'considerare,' which means 'to look at closely' or 'to observe the stars.'

Original meaning: Originally, it meant 'worthy of being considered' or 'capable of being thought about.'

It belongs to the Indo-European language family, specifically the Italic branch (Latin).

Cultural Context

There are no major sensitivities, but be careful not to use it for small things, as it might sound sarcastic.

Commonly used in formal speeches, news reports, and business meetings to show professional distance and objectivity.

In Jane Austen's novels, characters are often described as having 'considerable property' to show their high social class. Winston Churchill used the word 'considerable' in many of his wartime speeches to describe the challenges and efforts of the nation. The phrase 'considerable doubt' is a key concept in many legal dramas and real-world court cases.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Business

considerable profit
considerable investment
considerable growth
considerable risk

Academic

considerable evidence
considerable debate
considerable research
considerable influence

Environment

considerable damage
considerable impact
considerable change
considerable amount of rain

Daily Life

considerable time
considerable distance
considerable effort
considerable success

Legal

considerable doubt
considerable weight
considerable penalty
considerable evidence

Conversation Starters

"Have you made considerable progress on your latest project recently?"

"Do you think there is a considerable difference between living in the city and the countryside?"

"What is something that requires a considerable amount of effort for you to do?"

"Have you ever traveled a considerable distance to visit someone special?"

"Do you believe that social media has a considerable influence on our daily lives?"

Journal Prompts

Describe a time when you achieved considerable success in something. What did you do to get there?

Write about a project that took a considerable amount of your time. Was it worth the effort?

Think of a person who has had a considerable influence on your life. How did they change you?

What are some considerable challenges facing the world today, and how can we solve them?

If you had a considerable sum of money, what is the first thing you would do with it?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, they have a similar meaning, but 'considerable' is much more formal. You would use 'a lot' when talking to friends, but 'considerable' is better for work or school writing. For example, 'I have a lot of work' vs. 'I have a considerable amount of work.'

Yes, but be careful. If you say 'He is a considerable man,' it usually means he is very important or has a lot of influence. It can also mean he is physically large, but this is less common. If you mean he is kind, you must use 'considerate' instead.

The adverb form is 'considerably.' You use it to describe how something changed or how an action was done. For example, 'The price dropped considerably' or 'He is considerably taller than his brother.'

No, it is neutral. It just means 'large.' You can have 'considerable success' (positive) or 'considerable damage' (negative). It depends on the noun that follows it.

Yes, you can, but 'considerable' is already a strong word. Usually, 'considerable' on its own is enough to show that something is large. Adding 'very' just makes it even stronger.

It can be used for both! For uncountable nouns, we often say 'a considerable amount of...' (e.g., considerable amount of time). For countable nouns, we say 'a considerable number of...' (e.g., considerable number of people).

It is spelled C-O-N-S-I-D-E-R-A-B-L-E. A common mistake is to forget the 'e' after 'r'. Just remember the word 'consider' and add 'able' to the end.

The most common nouns are amount, effort, time, influence, progress, damage, interest, and success. Learning these pairings will help you use the word naturally.

Yes, it is very common in formal writing and news. It is one of the top 3,000 most used words in the English language.

No, that is a common mistake. 'Considerate' means thoughtful. 'Considerable' only refers to size, amount, or importance.