C1noun2K

Reflection

UK /["/rɪˈflekʃn/"]/US /["/rɪˈflekʃn/"]/

Definition

an image in a mirror, on a shiny surface, on water, etc.

In simple words: Thinking about something you did or experienced.

Examples

  • The reflection of the mountains in the lake was breathtaking.
  • She studied her reflection carefully in the mirror before the interview.
  • The reflection of the sun on the water made it difficult to see.
  • His thoughtful reflection on the event helped everyone understand the deeper issues.
  • After some reflection, she decided to change her career path.
  • The reflection of the sound waves from the canyon walls created an echo.
  • Reflection of light is responsible for the colors we see in a rainbow.

Usage notes

Use 'reflection' when discussing thoughts about past experiences or opinions. It's appropriate in both formal and informal contexts, but be cautious using it in casual conversations where simpler words might be more common.

Grammar pattern

reflection + on [topic]

Memory hint

Think of 'reflecting' like looking in a mirror—you're seeing your thoughts.

Collocations

  • clear
  • dim
  • faint
  • catch
  • catch a glimpse of
  • catch sight of
  • look…
  • appear
  • stare (back)
  • in a/​the reflection
  • reflection in
  • reflection on
  • heat
  • light
  • sound
  • reflection from
  • the angle of reflection
  • accurate
  • fair
  • good
  • give (somebody)
  • provide
  • reflection of
  • reflection on
  • reflection upon
  • careful
  • deep
  • mature
  • encourage
  • invite
  • prompt
  • show somebody/​something
  • after reflection
  • on reflection
  • upon reflection
  • a moment of reflection
  • a moment’s reflection
  • a period of reflection
  • interesting
  • poignant
  • brief
  • have
  • offer
  • reflection about
  • reflection on
  • reflection upon
  • accurate
  • fair
  • good
  • give (somebody)
  • provide
  • reflection of
  • reflection on
  • reflection upon

Synonyms

  • contemplation
  • thought
  • consideration
  • meditation
  • rumination

Antonyms

  • ignorance
  • disregard
  • neglect

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'refraction' which relates to light.
  • Used inappropriately in plural form as 'reflections' when referring to the process of thinking about a single experience.
  • Misunderstood the meaning as only a physical mirror image.