weighing up

USAGE SUMMARY

"weighing up" is a valid phrase used in written English.
It is a phrasal verb that is used to describe the process of considering a range of factors or options before making a decision. For example: "As I was weighing up the pros and cons, I finally decided to take the job."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Merkel is constantly weighing up her options.

The Guardian - Opinion

Emmanuel was weighing up whether to go.

Independent

"People are weighing up alternative parties.

The Guardian

Could it be that we're weighing up what's been lost?

The Guardian - Film

Yes, I can without weighing up the lost drinking opportunity.

The Guardian

It's more about weighing up the individual elements.

Independent

"It's a question of weighing up the pluses and minuses.

Independent

I'm weighing up a high-risk bon mot.

Independent

Some bells were very large, weighing up to one ton.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Weighing up your options also has advice on making decisions.

The Guardian

Crown prosecutors are currently weighing up the evidence.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "weighing up", ensure that the context clearly indicates that multiple options or factors are being considered. For instance, "She is "weighing up" the benefits and drawbacks of each proposal".

Common error

Avoid using "weighing up" when only one option is available or when the focus is on a simple task. Instead of saying "He is "weighing up" his decision to leave", which implies multiple options, use "He is considering his decision to leave" if there aren't multiple choices.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "weighing up" functions as a phrasal verb. Ludwig AI identifies its use to indicate the act of considering and comparing different factors or options before making a decision. This is evident from the many examples, where individuals or entities are assessing pros and cons.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

14%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Medicine

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Weighing up" is a common and grammatically correct phrasal verb used to describe the process of carefully considering different options or factors before making a decision. Ludwig AI's analysis of numerous examples from authoritative sources, such as the BBC, The Guardian and The New York Times, confirms its frequent use in news, science, and general contexts. When using "weighing up", ensure that the context clearly suggests a deliberative process involving multiple elements. Alternatives like "considering" or "evaluating" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. It is a versatile phrase suitable for both professional and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Considering

A more general term for thinking about something, lacking the specific implication of balancing different factors.

Evaluating

Implies a more structured and analytical approach to assessment.

Assessing

Similar to evaluating, but can also refer to determining the value or extent of something.

Pondering

Suggests a deeper, more thoughtful consideration, often over a longer period.

Contemplating

Implies a serious and prolonged consideration, often with a sense of uncertainty.

Deliberating

Focuses on the careful consideration of arguments for and against something.

Examining

Suggests a detailed and careful inspection of something.

Analyzing

Highlights the breaking down of something into its component parts for closer inspection.

Scrutinizing

Implies a very close and critical examination.

Gauging

Focuses on estimating or determining the extent, amount, or capacity of something.

FAQs

How can I use "weighing up" in a sentence?

Use "weighing up" when you want to express the process of considering different options or factors before making a decision. For example, "I'm "weighing up" whether to accept the new job offer".

What's the difference between "considering" and "weighing up"?

"Considering" is a general term for thinking about something, while "weighing up" specifically implies a process of balancing different options or factors to reach a decision.

Which is a better alternative to "weighing up": "evaluating" or "assessing"?

Both "evaluating" and "assessing" are good alternatives to "weighing up", but "evaluating" suggests a more structured analysis, while "assessing" might refer to determining the value or extent of something.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "weighing up"?

It is inappropriate to use "weighing up" when there is only one option to consider or when the context does not involve balancing different factors. In such cases, simpler terms like "considering" or "thinking about" are more suitable.