considering

Considering is a word with two primary functions in English. As a verb form, it is the present participle of the verb consider, as in "She is considering a move" or "They are considering several options." As a preposition or conjunction, considering means “in view of” or “taking into account,” as in "Considering the weather, we postponed the trip" or "Considering that the project was late, we adjusted the schedule." In the prepositional use, it introduces information that bears on the main statement.

Etymology traces considering to the verb consider, which comes from Latin considerare, via Old French considérer. The sense of reflection and careful thought in English has long been tied to this root, and the prepositional use extends from the idea of weighing factors before making a judgment.

Usage notes include that considering can introduce a noun phrase or a clause. With a noun phrase, it functions like a preposition: "Considering the costs, the plan was revised." With a clause, it can omit or include "that": "Considering that the costs are high, we revised the plan" or "Considering the costs, we revised the plan." In many formal contexts, alternatives such as "in light of" or "given" may be preferred, but considering remains common in both written and spoken English for signaling deliberation or a circumstance that affects reasoning.

See also: consider, consideration, preposition, conjunction.