The term consideration refers to something given in exchange for a promise or an act. It is commonly used in legal contexts, particularly when it comes to contract law. In essence, it means that both parties involved in an agreement must provide some form of value or benefit to one another as part of the deal. This could be money, goods, services, or even promises to perform certain actions. The concept of consideration is crucial to the formation and enforcement of contracts because it ensures that there is a mutual exchange between both parties involved.