weigh

Definition of weighnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb weigh differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of weigh are consider, contemplate, and study. While all these words mean "to think about in order to arrive at a judgment or decision," weigh implies attempting to reach the truth or arrive at a decision by balancing conflicting claims or evidence.

weigh the pros and cons of the case

When might consider be a better fit than weigh?

The words consider and weigh can be used in similar contexts, but consider may suggest giving thought to in order to reach a suitable conclusion, opinion, or decision.

refused even to consider my proposal

When is contemplate a more appropriate choice than weigh?

Although the words contemplate and weigh have much in common, contemplate stresses focusing one's thoughts on something but does not imply coming to a conclusion or decision.

contemplate the consequences of refusing

When could study be used to replace weigh?

The words study and weigh are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, study implies sustained purposeful concentration and attention to details and minutiae.

study the plan closely

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of weigh Earlier in April, oil prices briefly cooled as investors weighed the odds for a ceasefire in Iran that could reopen the Strait of Hormuz — the vital waterway through which around a quarter of the world’s seaborne oil travels. Bloomberg, Mercury News, 30 Apr. 2026 Trump is weighing multiple diplomatic and policy options to push Iran to end its chokehold, said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to comment publicly. Jon Gambrell, Los Angeles Times, 30 Apr. 2026 At his height and weighing 305 pounds, Rioux lacked explosivenes, lateral movement and endurance, while his hand-eye coordination was inconsistent. Edgar Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 30 Apr. 2026 The City Council is now weighing how to respond to years of resident demand without overspending. Idaho Statesman, 30 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for weigh
Recent Examples of Synonyms for weigh
Verb
  • What actually matters to you becomes much clearer.
    Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 1 May 2026
  • Why mosquito control matters beyond the bites For most gardeners, mosquitoes are about comfort — or the lack of it.
    Ryan Brennan, Sacbee.com, 30 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Redditors also ponder an IKEA cookie relation.
    Alex Beggs, Bon Appetit Magazine, 25 Apr. 2026
  • First, there are the big-name athletes to find and woo into competing on the streets of the UK’s capital, then the pace-makers, the notable debutants, and the tantalising head-to-heads to create; there’s the hotel bookings, the visas, the flights, the prize money and even bonuses to ponder over.
    Liam Tharme, New York Times, 25 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • That means ballots are set and in some states early and absentee voting has already begun.
    Nicholas Riccardi, Chicago Tribune, 30 Apr. 2026
  • British monarchs are subject to rules and norms meant to prevent them from taking overtly political stands.
    Emma Caughlan, NBC news, 30 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • If the particular coat isn’t available anymore, consider a gift card.
    R. Eric Thomas, Chicago Tribune, 26 Apr. 2026
  • Las Vegas has depth at the edge, making the Auburn product an interesting pick considering needs like offensive line, defensive tackle and wide receiver are still unfilled.
    Sam Warren, New York Times, 25 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Leonard’s deal with Aspiration occurred as Ballmer invested in the company and as the Clippers and Aspiration signed deals that contemplated a $300 million partnership for Aspiration to sponsor the Clippers’ arena and the team’s jersey patch.
    Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 24 Apr. 2026
  • The paintings incorporate scenes Martinez witnessed during nighttime walks through Istanbul, contemplating the boundaries and borders created by the city’s barriers, amid political unrest and oppression.
    Patrick Connolly, The Orlando Sentinel, 24 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Idaho lawmakers spent hours debating a surge in rodents menacing Boise-area gardens and kitchens and threatening agriculture and public health.
    Karin Brulliard, Washington Post, 25 Apr. 2026
  • While city leaders debated how to restructure the system, LAHSA employees said the uncertainty is already taking a toll.
    Teresa Liu, Daily News, 25 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Umbrellas are dotting the viewing area as a Marine band entertains guests.
    Kathryn Palmer, USA Today, 29 Apr. 2026
  • Big bands entertained big crowds at fancy parties.
    Miami Herald Archives, Miami Herald, 29 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • With the third-year pro also coming off a subpar 2025 campaign, Wells’ offensive capabilities have been the subject of questioning in recent weeks and months.
    Gary Phillips, New York Daily News, 26 Apr. 2026
  • The Republican has built a reputation in part due to his willingness to question the federal government’s role in releasing classified information.
    Kacen Bayless, Kansas City Star, 25 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Weigh.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/weigh. Accessed 2 May. 2026.

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