considerable

Everyday

1. Large in size, amount or importance; quite a lot: a considerable amount of money. tree →
2. (formal) Worth thinking about or important: a considerable writer. tree →

In the lessons

A formal word in exams, news and reports, often meaning "a lot" or "quite big". In maths word problems in exam language it signals a large but not exact amount. Phrases: considerable amount, considerable time, at considerable cost, to a considerable extent.

Examples

• The storm caused considerable damage to the roofs. tree →
• It took a considerable amount of time to finish the model. tree →
• (formal) A considerable number of pupils were absent. tree →
• The new bridge was built at considerable cost. tree →
• He has considerable skill at chess. tree →
• (formal) The difference between the two totals is considerable. tree →
• This I did, and before long had amassed a considerable sum. tree →

Note

Adjective; the adverb is considerably. Do not confuse with considerate (thinking of other people's feelings). "Considerable" gives no exact number; a maths answer still needs the given figures.

In Jewish tradition

A formal word in exams, news and reports, often meaning "a lot" or "quite big". In maths word problems in exam language it signals a large but not exact amount. Phrases: considerable amount, considerable time, at considerable cost, to a considerable extent.

Note

Adjective; the adverb is considerably. Do not confuse with considerate (thinking of other people's feelings). "Considerable" gives no exact number; a maths answer still needs the given figures.