考える

• Reading: かんがえる
• Romaji: kangaeru
• Kanji breakdown: 考 (kō/kanga) — think, consider; derived from image of an elder reflecting
• Pronunciation: /ka.ŋa.e.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To think; to consider; to ponder; to reflect on something carefully before reaching a conclusion.

A Group 2 (ichidan) transitive verb. Used for deliberate, conscious thinking and reasoning. Different from 思う (omou), which expresses opinions or feelings more spontaneously. Often followed by てみる to mean 'try thinking about it' or てから to mean 'after thinking about it.'

Examples

1. 少し考えてから答えます。 I'll think about it a bit before answering.
2. 将来のことをよく考えています。 I'm thinking carefully about my future.
3. もう一度考えてみましょう。 Let's try thinking about it one more time.

Usage Guide

Context: daily life, work, studying

Tone: thoughtful

Origin & History

The kanji 考 originally depicted an elderly person with a bent back leaning on a staff, representing the wisdom and reflection that comes with age and experience.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal