Reflecting: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone is thinking carefully or considering something deeply, often enjoying reminiscing about the past.

• She sat by the window, reflecting on her childhood memories
• After the meeting, he spent a few minutes reflecting on what was discussed

Appropriate when considering something for a long time, often with a sense of serious thought or regard for future actions or decisions.

• She contemplated her next career move for weeks before making a decision
• He took a moment to contemplate the possible consequences of his actions

Best used when thinking about something carefully, often when seeking a solution or understanding an issue deeply.

• He pondered over the problem for hours before coming up with a solution
• She pondered whether to take the job offer in another city

Often used when thinking deeply about something, sometimes with a negative connotation of overthinking or dwelling on something excessively.

• He tends to ruminate on his past mistakes, which affects his current performance
• She ruminated for days on her recent breakup

Used when talking about thinking deeply about something or seeing an image as a result of light bouncing off a surface.

• She spent the evening reflecting on her decisions.
• The lake was reflecting the mountains.

Used when describing an object that reflects an image or when stating that something closely resembles another thing.

• She looked at herself in the mirror.
• His actions mirrored his father's behavior.

Used when describing a sound that repeats because it bounces off a surface or when referencing an idea that is similar to another.

• Her voice produced an echo in the empty hall.
• His opinion echoed the sentiments of the community.

Used when talking about the act of creating a copy of something, such as sounds, images, or biological offspring.

• The machine can perfectly reproduce the original document.
• Most living organisms reproduce to ensure the survival of their species.