reconsider

American  

[ree-kuhn-sid-er] / ˌri kənˈsɪd ər /

verb (used with object)

1. to consider again, especially with a view to change of decision or action.

   to reconsider a refusal.

   Synonyms:

   reevaluate, reexamine, review, rethink

2. Parliamentary Procedure. to take up for consideration a second time, as a motion or a vote, as with the view of reversing or modifying action taken.

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verb (used without object)

1. to reconsider a matter.

reconsider British  

/ ˌriːkənˈsɪdə /

verb

1. to consider (something) again, with a view to changing one's policy or course of action

2. (in a legislative assembly or similar body) to consider again (a bill or other matter) that has already been voted upon

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Other Word Forms

• reconsideration noun
• unreconsidered adjective

Etymology

Origin of reconsider

First recorded in 1565–75; re- + consider

Explanation

When you reconsider something, you think about it again or in a new way. You might decline your grandfather's invitation to the circus, but then reconsider when you see that Gunther the famous lion tamer is showing up. When you reconsider, you usually end up changing your mind about your initial decision or opinion. Your neighbor might be planning to vote for a candidate you dislike; however, if you do a good enough job arguing in favor of a different candidate, she might reconsider her vote. The Latin root of consider is considerare, "look at closely," or "observe the stars." Reconsider adds the "again" prefix re-.

Example Sentences

The controversy ultimately forced newsrooms across the country to reconsider not just whether they should cover such figures, but how.

From Salon • Apr. 6, 2026

I’ve been noticing how expensive live entertainment has become lately, and it’s made me reconsider how much I’m spending on experiences.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 27, 2026

While such ideas remain controversial, they highlight an important point: The emergence of advanced AI may force us to reconsider assumptions that have guided science for generations.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 25, 2026

His remarks came as central banks reconsider their monetary policies amid expectations that the surge in oil prices will send inflation soaring, with the Reserve Bank of Australia last week hiking interest rates.

From Barron's • Mar. 23, 2026

Maybe Father was dropping the hint that it was time for the villagers to reconsider the whole proposition of Tata Ndu.

From "The Poisonwood Bible" by Barbara Kingsolver

Related Words

• amend
• reassess
• reevaluate
• reexamine
• rethink
• review
• revise