Words / C1

di-lib-uh-RAYSHUN/dɪˌlɪbəˈreɪʃn/

Deliberation is careful thought or discussion before a decision: after deliberation, lengthy deliberations. Deliberate as an adjective means on purpose or slow (B2); the noun is the thinking process. Discussion is everyday; deliberation stresses care and time. Do not use it for a two-second choice.

Meaning

Careful, slow thought or discussion before a decision.

Examples

• “After two hours of deliberation, the jury returned.”
• “The jury’s deliberation lasted overnight, which is why the building stayed open.”
• “After some deliberation she chose the safer wording, not the sharper one.”

Good to know

Careful thought before a decision. Related adj.: deliberate (on purpose / slow). Everyday: discussion. Not a snap choice.

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