reconsideration
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /rˌiːkənsˌɪdərˈeɪʃən/
US
- /rikənˌsɪdərˈeɪʃən/
Description
- think again
- review
- second look
- re-evaluation
- reassessment
When faced with a difficult decision, sometimes you need to think it over again. That is where reconsideration comes in. It's not just changing your mind; it's taking another careful look at all the facts and possibilities. Imagine a builder realizing the first plans for a house will not quite work—they need a fresh look at the design.
The word often suggests a formal or important review. You might ask for reconsideration of a denied loan application, meaning you want the lender to examine it again with new information. It's more than just a quick reaction; it implies a careful process of re-evaluation. A judge, for instance, might grant a defendant's request for reconsideration of a sentence if new evidence comes to light.
Reconsideration refers to the act of thinking about something again, often with the intention of changing a previous decision or opinion. It's more than just a fleeting thought; it implies a deliberate and thorough re-evaluation of information, circumstances, or arguments.
You might request reconsideration in formal settings like legal proceedings ("The lawyer filed a motion for reconsideration of the verdict") or administrative processes ("After submitting additional documentation, she received a notice of reconsideration regarding her application"). This means asking someone in authority to review their decision based on new information or a different perspective.
However, reconsideration isn't limited to formal requests. You can also engage in personal reconsideration—taking time to reflect on your own beliefs, actions, or goals. Perhaps you initially dismissed a career path but, after further thought and experience, you find yourself open to reconsidering it.
The key element of reconsideration is the willingness to revisit a previous conclusion and potentially alter course based on new insights. It's about being open-minded, analytical, and willing to admit that an initial assessment might have been incomplete or flawed. Think of an architect who designs a bridge; if new calculations show instability, they must undertake a thorough reconsideration of the structural plans before construction continues. Ultimately, reconsideration is vital for making informed decisions and adapting to changing circumstances.
Examples
- 1
Personal decision
After some reconsideration, she decided to stay in her current job.
- 2
Academic appeal
The university allows students to request reconsideration of an exam result.
Pattern
request reconsideration of + decision/result
formally ask for it to be reviewed again
- 3
Safety planning
New safety data has led to a reconsideration of the original plan.
- 4
Changed opinion
On reconsideration, I think we should wait a few more weeks.
Phrase
on reconsideration
after thinking about it again
- 5
Legal review
In light of the new evidence, the case is under reconsideration.
Phrase
under reconsideration
being reviewed again before a final decision
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- reconsiderationnoun
Forms
- reconsiderationspluralnoun