deliberation
dih-lib-uh-RAY-shun
/dɪˌlɪbəˈreɪʃn/
Long and careful consideration or discussion before making a decision.
Implies solemn, structured, and thorough debate by a collective body or jury.
The story behind the word. Traces back to Latin 'deliberare' (to weigh carefully), constructed from 'de-' (thoroughly) and 'libra' (a pair of scales). It evokes the literal image of placing arguments on a balance scale to weigh their relative merit.
Word relationships
- consultation: 'Consultation' emphasizes seeking advice or expert opinions.
- contemplation: 'Contemplation' is typically individual, quiet, and reflective rather than a debate among group members.
- impulsiveness: 'Impulsiveness' means taking swift action without forethought.
- haste: 'Haste' denotes hurried action lacking thorough examination.
Commonly confused with
- liberation: 'Deliberation' means careful debate or weighing options; 'liberation' means setting free from restraint or bondage.
Word family
- deliberate (verb): To consider carefully and weigh options.
- deliberate (adjective): Done consciously and intentionally.
- deliberative (adjective): Relating to or intended for consideration or debate.
Collocations
- careful deliberation
- lengthy deliberation
- jury deliberation
- after much deliberation
Example sentences
- "After three days of deliberation, the jury returned a unanimous verdict of not guilty." Judicial Process
- "The cabinet engaged in intense deliberation before deciding to intervene in the market." Legislative Debate
Memory hook
DE-LIBRA-TION: using the LIBRA (scales of justice) to weigh arguments. Weighing options on a scale.
When not to use
Do not use for hasty conversations, off-the-cuff arguments, or casual chatter.
Fun facts
- The astrological sign Libra is represented by balance scales, sharing the exact same root as 'deliberation'.
Related words
Explore more words
deliberate, deliberative, counsel, scrutiny, contemplation, make a decision
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