The English language is rich with vocabulary that can sometimes cause confusion due to its similarities with other words. One such word is ‘considerable.’ People often wonder whether ‘considerable’ is a legitimate word, how it’s used in everyday communication, and what it truly means. To clear the confusion, yes, ‘considerable’ is indeed a real and widely accepted word in English. It is commonly used in spoken and written contexts and carries specific meanings depending on how and where it is applied. In this topic, we will explore the meaning, usage, and relevance of the word ‘considerable’ in depth.
Understanding the Meaning of ‘Considerable’
The word ‘considerable’ is an adjective that refers to something large in size, amount, extent, or degree. When someone uses the word, they are typically referring to something that is notably significant or worthy of attention. It is derived from the verb consider, which means to think about carefully, but ‘considerable’ itself emphasizes the importance or size of something.
Examples of Usage
- She spent aconsiderableamount of time preparing for the exam.
- The project required aconsiderableinvestment of resources.
- There has been aconsiderableimprovement in his health.
As seen in the examples, the word is usually used to describe things that are of large quantity or importance. It is a flexible term that can apply to both tangible and intangible subjects.
Grammatical Role of ‘Considerable’
‘Considerable’ functions as an adjective. That means it is used to describe nouns, adding more detail about size, importance, or degree. It is not used as a noun or verb, and attempting to use it in those roles would be grammatically incorrect.
Correct: The company made aconsiderableprofit last year.
Incorrect: Theconsiderableof the problem was ignored.
As with all adjectives, it typically comes before the noun it modifies, though it can also be used after a linking verb like ‘is’ or ‘seems.’
Related Forms
There are several related words and variations that come from the same root:
- Considerably(adverb): She improvedconsiderablyafter the treatment.
- Consider(verb): Pleaseconsidermy application carefully.
- Consideration(noun): Hisconsiderationfor others is admirable.
All of these variations help to convey ideas around thoughtfulness, size, or significance in different grammatical contexts.
Why ‘Considerable’ Is Important in Communication
Using the word ‘considerable’ can enhance the clarity and strength of communication. Instead of saying a lot, which is vague, saying a considerable amount gives the statement more weight and formality. This is especially useful in academic writing, business reports, journalism, and formal speech.
Additionally, ‘considerable’ is often chosen over simpler words when the speaker wants to emphasize that something is not just large, but significantly so. It adds a layer of seriousness or professionalism to the message.
Common Contexts Where ‘Considerable’ Is Used
The word appears frequently in several types of communication. Below are some areas where it is especially common:
Business and Finance
- The merger brought in aconsiderableamount of revenue.
- We facedconsiderablerisks during the transition period.
In these contexts, ‘considerable’ helps to convey financial scale and business implications clearly and concisely.
Academia and Research
- There isconsiderableevidence supporting the hypothesis.
- The data shows aconsiderablecorrelation between the variables.
Academic writing often demands precise and elevated vocabulary. ‘Considerable’ fits this need by offering a more formal way to describe large amounts or important findings.
Media and Journalism
- The storm causedconsiderabledamage to the coastal region.
- He has receivedconsiderablepraise for his performance.
In news reporting, accuracy and impact are key. Using ‘considerable’ helps journalists communicate the extent of events without exaggeration or vagueness.
Misuse and Confusion
Although considerable is a standard English word, it is sometimes misused. One common mistake is assuming it means thoughtful or careful because it shares the root with consider. While ‘considerate’ means thoughtful or kind, ‘considerable’ relates more to size or importance.
Incorrect: He was veryconsiderabletoward the elderly.
Correct: He was veryconsideratetoward the elderly.
This confusion can lead to miscommunication, especially for non-native speakers. It’s important to understand the precise meaning to use the word effectively.
Synonyms and Antonyms of ‘Considerable’
Synonyms
- Significant
- Substantial
- Sizeable
- Major
- Marked
These synonyms can often be used in place of ‘considerable’ but may slightly change the tone or emphasis of the sentence. For instance, ‘substantial’ often implies something more concrete, while ‘significant’ may emphasize impact.
Antonyms
- Minor
- Insignificant
- Trivial
- Negligible
- Minimal
These words represent the opposite idea, usually referring to something small or not worth much attention.
Is ‘Considerable’ a Word?
Absolutely, ‘considerable’ is a valid and widely used word in the English language. It plays a crucial role in expressing magnitude, importance, and impact. Whether you’re writing an academic paper, delivering a business presentation, or simply trying to be more precise in conversation, ‘considerable’ can be a powerful addition to your vocabulary. Understanding its meaning, usage, and related forms helps enhance both written and spoken communication. By integrating this word thoughtfully, speakers and writers can achieve a more professional, clear, and impactful style.