reflection - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
reflection Word Meanings
- the act of reflecting or being reflected
- an image seen in a mirror or other surface
- serious thought or consideration
reflection Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
reflection Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/rɪˈflɛkʃən/
US
/rɪˈflɛkʃən/
reflection Word Etymology
re- = again + flectere = to bend. Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine an artist creating a mirror image of a landscape, bending to capture the reflection perfectly.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I place my cup on the desk and slide a bit closer to the window, watching the reflection grow clearer as I adjust my stance. I shift my gaze, tilt my head, and push a touch to sharpen the image on the glass. The effort of keeping my balance and narrowing the distance makes the scene feel like a tiny mirror of my own state, and I let that feeling guide how I move through the next moment.
Real Context
Reflection refers to the act of bending light to form an image or to the image itself seen in a mirror or shiny surface. It also means serious thought or consideration given to a subject, often after experience or study. In daily use, you can speak of a reflection on your past, or a reflection of a landscape in still water. You might describe a reflective person as thoughtful, often using phrases like deep reflection or time for reflection. Learners should note that reflection is a concrete image sense in English, while reflection as thought typically collocates with thinking, pondering, or consideration.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: 1) reflection can be a physical image or a mental process. 2) use reflect on for thinking about something. 3) reflect is a verb; reflection is the noun. 4) collocations: deep reflection, time for reflection. 5) watch out for false friends like reflex. 6) vary between mirror images and personal introspection.
Common Misconceptions
- The image in a mirror is the only kind of reflection.
- Reflection always means deep philosophical thinking.
- Reflected light is the same as the reflection as a person thinks.
- Reflect and reflection always pair with the same meaning.
- You can replace reflection with 'reflection on' in all contexts.
Thinking Differences
In English, reflection commonly covers both a visual image and a mental process, with clear phrasing to distinguish the two (see 'reflection on' for thinking; 'reflection' as a noun for the image).
Learning Tips
- Practice both senses in context (image vs thinking).
- Pair reflection with physical verbs (see, appear) and mental verbs (ponder, consider).
- Use 'reflect on' for thinking about a topic, not 'reflect' alone.
- Learn common collocations: deep reflection, reflection on the past.
- Compare synonyms: mirror image, image, echo of thought.
- Listen for cues in context to distinguish the meaning.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
Which option gives the correct meaning of 'reflection'?
A.A surface that produces light
B.A sudden decision made without thinking
C.Careful thought or serious consideration
D.A short written summary of events
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'reflection' correctly?
A.After the meeting, she took time for reflection to consider the team's next steps.
B.The reflection of the sun warmed the soil and made the flowers bloom faster.
C.He repaired the broken chair by reflection.
D.The baker followed the reflection in the recipe to add more sugar.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar in meaning to 'reflection'?
A.contemplation
B.image
C.glimmer
D.summary
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is the opposite of 'reflection' in the sense of thoughtful consideration?
A.consideration
B.meditation
C.impulsiveness
D.reverie
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone uses quiet thinking before making a decision? Which example shows that?
A.She adjusted the mirror to get a clearer view of her face.
B.Before accepting the promotion, he spent a weekend thinking deeply about how it would affect his family.
C.They immediately signed the contract after hearing the first proposal.
D.The polished metal made a bright image of the sky on its surface.
Related Listening
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