“Consider Doing” vs. “Consider To Do” – Selecting the Appropriate Form
When expressing the act of contemplation or deliberation in English, the verb “consider” often precedes another verb. A common point of confusion arises when deciding whether to follow “consider” with “doing” or “to do.”
This article will clarify the correct usage of each form, enhancing your command of English verb patterns.
Quick Summary
“Consider doing” is the correct form to use when indicating that someone is thinking about taking an action. The construction “consider to do” is not standard English and is generally considered incorrect.
“Consider Doing” vs. “Consider To Do” – Which is Correct?
“Consider doing” is the grammatically correct choice, as “consider” is one of the verbs in English that is typically followed by a gerund (the -ing form of a verb). Here’s a quick guide:
| Expression | When to Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Consider doing | When discussing the possibility of an action | I will consider joining the club after I learn more about it. |
| Consider to do | This form is not used in standard English | Incorrect: I will consider to join the club. |
How to Use “Consider Doing”
“Consider doing” is used when you want to express the thought process of weighing the merits or possibilities of a particular action. Here’s how to use “Consider doing”:
“I’m considering moving to a new city for better job opportunities.”
“She is considering starting her own business next year.”
Practice Exercises
Choose the correct form to complete the sentences:
- After much thought, I am _ (considering doing/considering to do) a career change.
- He should _ (consider doing/consider to do) all the consequences before making a decision.
- We are _ (considering doing/considering to do) going on vacation in the summer.
- Are you _ (considering doing/considering to do) the offer from the university?
- They are _ (considering doing/considering to do) adopting a pet from the shelter.
Answer Key:
- considering doing
- consider doing
- considering going (Note: “going” is the correct gerund form of “go,” not “doing.”)
- considering accepting (Note: “accepting” is the correct gerund form of “accept,” not “doing.”)
- considering adopting (Note: “adopting” is the correct gerund form of “adopt,” not “doing.”)
Conclusion
When deliberating an action, “consider doing” is the proper form to express the act of thinking about it. Remember that “consider to do” is not standard English and should be avoided.
By using “consider doing” correctly, you ensure that your English is both fluent and grammatically sound.
