Deliberate
/dɪˈlɪbərət/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo consider or discuss issues carefully and at length; to do something intentionally.
/dɪˈlɪbəreɪt/
To do something consciously and intentionally; to think or talk carefully and at length.
The jury deliberated for three days before reaching a verdict.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're picking which ice cream flavor to get. When you *deliberate*, you're not just grabbing the first one you see. You're thinking about all the flavors, maybe even reading the descriptions, before you decide. You are being careful and thoughtful!
👶 For kids: To think about something very carefully before you do it.
More Examples
We need to deliberate the pros and cons before making a decision.
She deliberated over her options, finally choosing to accept the job offer.
How It's Used
"The committee deliberated for hours before reaching a decision."
"The jury must deliberate on the evidence before delivering a verdict."
"She deliberated for a while before choosing which dress to wear."
Done consciously and intentionally; planned or considered.
/dɪˈlɪbərət/
Done consciously and intentionally.
The fire was a deliberate act of arson.
💡 Simply: If you accidentally step on someone's foot, it’s an accident. But if you *deliberately* step on their foot, it means you did it on purpose and knew what you were doing. It wasn't an accident!
👶 For kids: Done on purpose.
More Examples
Her deliberate silence was a clear indication of her disapproval.
The slow, deliberate pace of his walk indicated his thoughtfulness.
How It's Used
"The act was considered deliberate, given his actions leading up to it."
"It was a deliberate insult, designed to hurt his feelings."
Idioms & expressions
deliberate speed
A legal term meaning to proceed at a thoughtful but efficient pace.
"The court ordered the desegregation of the schools with deliberate speed."
deliberate practice
A purposeful and systematic approach to practice aimed at improving specific skills.
"Professional athletes and musicians engage in deliberate practice to hone their abilities."
From Latin *dēliberātus*, past participle of *dēliberāre* ('to weigh carefully, consider'), from *dē-* ('thoroughly') + *liberāre* ('to weigh, balance, consider').
The word 'deliberate' has been used since the 15th century, initially referring to weighing or considering carefully, and gradually extending to mean intentional or premeditated.
Memory tip
Think of 'liberate' - to free your mind to carefully consider. DELIBERATE frees your mind to consider all the facts, options, and viewpoints.
Practice
Word Origin
Root: liberare