deliberate
dih-LIB-uh-rayt
/dɪˈlɪbəreɪt/
To engage in long and careful consideration before making a decision (verb); done consciously and intentionally (adjective).
As a verb, it implies a slow, methodical, and highly intellectual process of weighing pros and cons, often in a group setting (like a jury).
The story behind the word. The word deliberate is deeply connected to the scales of justice. It comes from the Latin libra, meaning a balance scale (which is also why the zodiac sign Libra is represented by scales). To deliberate is literally to place your options on a physical scale and see which side weighs more.
Word relationships
- ponder: 'Ponder' is a quiet, deeply personal, and often emotional reflection, while 'deliberate' is more structured, analytical, and often collaborative.
- contemplate: 'Contemplate' can mean simply looking at or thinking about something with detached interest, while 'deliberate' is goal-oriented toward making a decision.
- improvise: 'Improvise' means to act on the spot without preparation, whereas 'deliberate' means to plan and consider deeply beforehand.
Commonly confused with
- vacillate: 'Deliberate' is a constructive, active process of weighing options, while 'vacillate' is a passive, weak-willed inability to choose.
Word family
- deliberation (noun): Long and careful consideration or discussion.
- deliberately (adverb): Consciously and intentionally; on purpose.
Collocations
- deliberate on a matter
- deliberate choice
- deliberate pace
Idioms & expressions
- weigh the pros and cons
Example sentences
- "The jury retired to deliberate on their verdict after hearing three weeks of complex testimony." A jury discussing a high-profile court case.
- "The House of Representatives shall deliberate on the public interest." A classic political text on governance.
Memory hook
Think of the 'libra' scales. When you de-LIBER-ate, you are balancing the scales of your mind. Deliberate is to weigh on a scale.
When not to use
Do not use to describe a quick, intuitive decision or a state of anxious, helpless hesitation.
Fun facts
- The abbreviation 'lb' for pounds comes from the same Latin word libra that gives us deliberate!
Related words
Explore more words
deliberative, procrastinate, concerted, dilatory, make a decision, conscientious
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