Definition

1. Adjective:

   • Done consciously and intentionally; fully considered: An action or decision that is not accidental but is the result of careful thought and purpose.
   • Unhurried and careful: Characterized by a slow, steady, and careful manner, without rushing.

2. Verb:

   • To think about or discuss something carefully and thoroughly before making a decision: To engage in careful consideration or formal discussion about the advantages and disadvantages of an issue.

Examples of Usage

• Adjective:

  • The attack was a deliberate act of aggression.
  • She spoke in a slow, deliberate tone to ensure everyone understood.
  • After deliberate consideration, we have chosen to proceed with the plan.

• Verb:

  • The jury will deliberate for several hours before reaching a verdict.
  • We need to deliberate on the implications of this new policy.
  • He deliberated over the job offer for a week.

Advanced Usage

• "with all deliberate speed": A formal phrase meaning as quickly as is reasonably possible while still being careful and thorough. It implies a balance between urgency and due diligence.
  • The court ordered the changes to be implemented with all deliberate speed.

Variants and Related Words

• Deliberately (adverb): In a careful and unhurried way, or in a way that is intentional.

  • He deliberately ignored the warning.
  • She moved deliberately through the complex steps.

• Deliberation (noun): Long and careful consideration or discussion.

  • After much deliberation, they announced their decision.

• Deliberative (adjective): Relating to or intended for consideration or discussion.

  • The council serves a deliberative function.

Synonyms

• Adjective (Intentional): Intentional, calculated, conscious, willful, purposeful.
• Adjective (Unhurried): Measured, unhurried, methodical, steady, leisurely.
• Verb: Consider, ponder, contemplate, weigh, reflect on, debate, discuss.

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Deliberate on/upon/over/about (something): To think or talk about something carefully.
  • The committee is deliberating on the budget proposal.
  • She deliberated over her choice for a long time.

Related Idioms

• Not deliberate: This phrase is used to indicate that something was not done on purpose; it was an accident.
  • I apologize for the error; it was not deliberate.

Adjective

1. unhurried and with care and dignity
   • walking at the same measured pace
   • with all deliberate speed
2. carefully thought out in advance
   • a calculated insult
   • with measured irony

Verb

1. discuss the pros and cons of an issue
2. think about carefully; weigh
   • They considered the possibility of a strike
   • Turn the proposal over in your mind