Considering vs. Given: What's the Difference?
Edited by Harlon Moss || By Janet White || Updated on September 28, 2023
"Considering" often indicates active deliberation or evaluation, while "Given" usually introduces a fact or premise accepted as true. Both can be used to set up conditions or context, but they differ in the degree of certainty and deliberation involved.
Key Differences
"Considering" and "Given" are both English words frequently used to introduce context or conditions in a sentence. "Considering" usually implies an ongoing assessment or evaluation. For instance, "Considering the weather, we decided not to go out," suggests that the weather was actively evaluated before making a decision.
On the other hand, "Given" often introduces a fact or premise that is accepted as true or established. For example, "Given his experience, he should complete the project successfully." Here, there is no implication of ongoing assessment; the premise of his experience is accepted as true.
From a grammatical standpoint, "Considering" is generally used as a preposition or a present participle, and it typically indicates active deliberation. "Given," however, is more commonly used as a past participle or a preposition, and it usually conveys an already-established fact or condition.
Both "Considering" and "Given" can be used in legal or formal settings but carry different implications. While "Considering" might be used to weigh evidence, "Given" often introduces a stipulation or a premise that will not be contested. Thus, each has its unique applications depending on the context and what you intend to convey.
Comparison Chart
Part of Speech
Preposition, Present Participle
Past Participle, Preposition
ADVERTISEMENT
Certainty
Implies evaluation
Introduces established fact
Common Use
Everyday and formal language
Everyday and formal language
Example Sentence
Considering the rain, we stayed in.
Given the rain, the game was canceled.
Legal Usage
To weigh evidence
To introduce an uncontested premis
Considering and Given Definitions
Considering
Refers to being currently under review.
The application is considering candidates now.
ADVERTISEMENT
Given
A preposition introducing a context.
Given the circumstances, it's understandable.
Considering
Introduces a factor in a situation.
Considering the cost, it's not worth it
Given
Introduces an established fact or premise.
Given her talent, she'll win the competition.
Considering
Indicates active deliberation or evaluation.
Considering the risks, it's not a good idea.
Given
Indicates an unconditional situation.
The outcome is positive, given the variables involved.
Considering
A preposition introducing a condition or reason.
Considering his age, he's very mature.
Given
Past participle of give.
Considering
Used to weigh options or evidence.
We are considering your proposal.
Given
Specified; fixed
We will meet at a given time and location.
Considering
In view of; taking into consideration
You managed the project well, considering your inexperience. See Usage Note at participle.
Given
Granted as a supposition; acknowledged or assumed
Given the condition of the engine, it is a wonder that it even starts.
Considering
All things considered
We had a good trip, considering.
Given
Having a tendency; inclined
My neighbor is given to lavish spending.
Considering
Present participle of consider
Given
Bestowed as a gift; presented.
Considering
Consideration.
Given
Something assumed or taken for granted
"It's a given that the writer of short stories will be keeping his day job" (Donald E. Westlake).
Considering
(informal) Given the circumstances.
Your wound doesn't look that bad, considering.
Given
Inflection of give
Considering
Taking into account.
Considering the extent of his crimes, he was given a surprisingly short sentence.
Given
Considering; taking into account.
Given the current situation, I don't think that's possible.
Given
A condition that is assumed to be true without further evaluation.
When evaluating this math problem, don't forget to read the givens.
Given
Already arranged. en
Given
Currently discussed. en
Given
Particular, specific.
No more than three people can be in that space at a given time.
Given
Assumed as fact or hypothesis.
Given that we will get the resources, what do we want to achieve?
Given
(with to) Prone, disposed.
He was given to taking a couple of glasses of port at his club.
Given
Granted; assumed; supposed to be known; set forth as a known quantity, relation, or premise.
Given
Stated; fixed; as, in a given time.
Given
An assumption that is taken for granted
Given
Specified in advance;
A given number
We will meet at a given time and location
Given
Acknowledged as a supposition;
Given the engine's condition, it is a wonder that it started
Given
Having possession delivered or transferred without compensation
Given
(usually followed by `to') naturally disposed toward;
He is apt to ignore matters he considers unimportant
I am not minded to answer any questions
Given
Used to specify conditions in mathematical statements.
Given x, solve for y.
Given
In reference to time, an established point or period.
We'll meet at the given time.
FAQs
Is Considering used for ongoing assessment?
Yes, it implies active evaluation.
What does Given mean?
Introduces an established fact or premise.
Can both words be prepositions?
Yes, both can function as prepositions.
What is the grammatical role of Considering?
Preposition or present participle.
Can Considering be used in legal terms?
Yes, it can be used to weigh evidence.
Can Given be used in legal terms?
Yes, it can introduce an uncontested premise.
Is Considering subjective?
It can be, as it often involves evaluation or judgment.
What does Considering mean?
Indicates active deliberation or evaluation.
Is Given used for established facts?
Yes, it usually indicates a fact accepted as true.
Can Given be used in math?
Yes, especially to specify conditions in equations.
Is Considering commonly used in everyday language?
Yes, it is frequently used in various contexts.
Is Given objective?
It tends to be, as it usually states a fact.
Is Given commonly used in everyday language?
Yes, it is widely used in different situations.
What is the grammatical role of Given?
Past participle or preposition.
Can Considering introduce conditions?
Yes, it often introduces conditions or reasons.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
