I used to consider

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I used to consider" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a past belief or thought that you no longer hold. Example: "I used to consider that success was solely about wealth, but now I believe it's more about personal fulfillment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

"I used to consider myself a hacker minister," he said.

The New Yorker

I used to consider Zell and his tax-avoidance schemes sort of amusing.

The Washington Post

I used to consider that an insult early on, only because I had never studied.

The New York Times

This was a bit of a blow, given that previously I used to consider the English language an adventure playground; I was quite verbose.

The Guardian

I used to consider that a liability, having to explain to a patron why his or her G&T is tinted orange.

The New York Times

Due to his fondness for creating craven, selfish characters unaware of their own ethical transgressions, I used to consider him the thinking person's Neil LaBute, but that was giving him too little credit.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

While it wasn't necessarily dancing, for me it was a dance; the umbrella I use to consider the art form is golfer-size.

The New York Times - Arts

I always used to consider myself a shy person.

HuffPost

Despite the fact that I never used to consider myself a "writer," the simple act of putting pen to paper, and watching my story unfold has changed my mindset.

Huffington Post

College students from Connecticut -- I was one -- used to consider it an adventure to drive down after midnight to Wo Hop or Hong Fat, places where even the greasiest moo shu pork tasted great at 3 a.m.

The New York Times - Food

It also makes you appreciate the cultural obsession in question less: As of this writing, I'm currently three episodes behind on the current season of Rick and Morty, a show I used to once consider appointment viewing.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using this phrase, follow up with a contrasting statement to highlight the shift in your viewpoint or understanding.

Common error

Avoid simply stating what you used to consider without explaining your current perspective. Without the contrast, the statement lacks impact and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I used to consider" functions as an introductory clause. It sets the stage by indicating a shift in perspective or a change in belief. Ludwig examples show it's often followed by a contrasting statement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Academia

15%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I used to consider" is a common and grammatically correct way to introduce a past belief or viewpoint that has since changed. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is effective for expressing personal growth or shifts in perspective, adding depth and nuance to your writing. While versatile, it's most impactful when followed by a contrasting statement that explains the current viewpoint. Remember to follow best practices and complete the contrast to provide clarity. Ludwig's examples showcase its prevalence across various reputable sources, particularly in news and media.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I earlier considered

Similar to the query, but with a slightly more formal tone.

I once believed

Emphasizes a past belief that is no longer held.

I previously thought

Highlights a prior thought or opinion that has since changed.

I formerly regarded

Indicates a past way of regarding something, now different.

I had once assumed

Focuses on an earlier assumption that has proven incorrect.

I used to think of

Specifies the object of thought that has changed.

I once held the opinion

Formal way to express a past opinion.

My initial impression was

Highlights the first impression that later changed.

At first, I viewed

Emphasizes the initial viewpoint before a shift.

I initially perceived

Focuses on the original perception of something.

FAQs

How do I use "I used to consider" in a sentence?

Use "I used to consider" to introduce a past belief or viewpoint that you no longer hold. For example, "I used to consider that success was solely about wealth, but now I believe it's more about personal fulfillment."

What can I say instead of "I used to consider"?

You can use alternatives like "I once believed", "I previously thought", or "I formerly regarded" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "I use to consider" instead of "I used to consider"?

No, "I use to consider" is grammatically incorrect. The correct form is "I used to consider", where "used to" indicates a past habit or state.

What's the difference between "I used to consider" and "I started to consider"?

"I used to consider" indicates a past belief you no longer hold, while "I started to consider" marks the beginning of a period of consideration or deliberation.