Deliberate and deliberate are two words that are spelled identically but are pronounced differently and have different meanings, which makes them heteronyms. We will examine the definitions of the words deliberate and deliberate, where these words came from, and a few examples of their use in sentences.
Deliberate (duh LIB rut) is an adjective that describes something that is done intentionally, something that is done in a calculated manner and not by accident, something premediated or purposeful. The adverb form is deliberately. The word deliberate is derived from the Latin word deliberatus, which means something that is determined.
Deliberate (duh LIB er-rate) is a verb that means to consider or ponder something, to think something over, to mull or reflect on something. Related words are deliberates, deliberated, deliberating, deliberation. Judges and juries are said to deliberate a case before rendering a verdict. The word deliberate is also derived from the Latin word deliberatus, in the sense to consider carefully.
Examples
Lee called the heavy website traffic “unprecedented” and said she worked with federal and state law enforcement to ensure it wasn’t “a deliberate act against the voting process.” (The South Florida Sun Sentinel)
Last spring the saying, “Never waste a good crisis” permeated and, frankly, fit our reality as long as deliberate, intentional work followed. (Forbes Magazine)
Eamonn and Ruth took some time to deliberate the answer before declaring: “55 percent.” (The Daily Express)
Wexford County Clerk Alaina Nyman said in February the jury deliberated for nearly six hours and were brought into the courtroom twice during those deliberations. (The Cadillac News)
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