B2noun1K

Perspective

UK /["/pəˈspektɪv/"]/US /["/pərˈspektɪv/"]/

Definition

a particular attitude towards something; a way of thinking about something

In simple words: A way of looking at something or a point of view.

Examples

  • She shared her perspective on the issue during the meeting.
  • From his perspective, the project was a complete success.
  • The artist painted the landscape from a unique perspective.
  • It's important to understand different perspectives when discussing sensitive topics.
  • Their perspectives were shaped by their cultural backgrounds.
  • In photography, perspective can greatly affect the composition of a picture.

Usage notes

Used in discussions, essays, and conversations. It's appropriate in both academic and everyday contexts, but may not fit in very casual slang settings.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'per-spective' as 'per' (for each) and 'spective' (like spectacle) — a viewpoint you can see.

Collocations

  • alternative
  • different
  • fresh
  • have
  • get something in/​into
  • keep something in
  • from the perspective of
  • in perspective
  • into perspective
  • a sense of perspective
  • alternative
  • different
  • fresh
  • have
  • get something in/​into
  • keep something in
  • from the perspective of
  • in perspective
  • into perspective
  • a sense of perspective
  • distorted
  • horizontal
  • vertical
  • in perspective
  • out of perspective
  • the laws of perspective

Synonyms

  • viewpoint

Antonyms

  • narrow-mindedness
  • bias
  • limited view

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'perspective' vs 'prospective'.
  • Misused in plural form when discussing viewpoints — it's usually singular.
  • Omitting the context or topic when saying 'from my perspective'.