Deliberate
Morning routines that survive the whole syllabus, leaves outside off stump, and insults that sting for years all share this quality: weighed before acting.
Learn This WordMeaning
Careful and intentional in action.
Memory trick
DE-LIBERATE weighs on the LIBRA scales before acting.
Examples
A deliberate pause followed.
Her deliberate routine, same desk, same chai, same first chapter, carried her through the syllabus.
The batsman’s deliberate leave outside off stump frustrated the bowler.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Etymology
From Latin deliberare "to weigh well," from de- "down" + libra "scales, balance." Deliberate acts have been weighed on the scales.
Usage Notes
Adjective DELIB-erut, verb de-LIB-er-ate. As adjective it praises or accuses intent: deliberate practice vs deliberate insult.
Real-life contexts
Use in praise: "Her preparation was deliberate and calm."
Use in caution: "That was a deliberate foul, referee."
Use in work: "Take deliberate notes in every review."
Common Mistakes
Mind the stress shift: adjective DLIBrut, verb dlibRAYT. Deliberate (intentional) is positive for practice and damning for offenses.
Master This Word
Add "deliberate" to your vocabulary and practice with AI & smart flashcards!
Start LearningQuick Facts
Part of Speech
adjective
Difficulty
intermediateMonthly Searches
~42,000