Reflection: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone is thinking back or considering their past experiences or actions. It can also mean the mirroring of an image on a surface.

• After the meeting, Sarah spent some time in reflection
• The reflection of the mountain in the lake was stunning

Implies deep, serious thought or consideration, often about philosophical or existential matters.

• He sat in contemplation of the meaning of life
• Her contemplation of the painting lasted for hours

Refers to a practice where an individual uses techniques like mindfulness or focusing the mind on a particular object, thought, or activity to achieve a mentally clear and emotionally calm state.

• Meditation helps her manage stress
• He finds peace through daily meditation

Involves repetitive thinking, often about negative feelings or problems, and has a more negative connotation than the other terms.

• Her habit of rumination kept her awake at night
• Rumination over past mistakes is not healthy

When discussing thoughts, serious considerations, or physical images bouncing back from a surface.

• After a long day, she sat down for some quiet reflection.
• The reflection in the mirror showed a tired face.

When copying or imitating either behavior, actions, or physical images in a deliberate way.

• The child was mirroring his father's actions.
• The lake's still water was mirroring the mountains.

When describing prolonged sound waves bouncing back, often contributing to a rich, resonant effect.

• The reverberation of the gong filled the room.
• Her call for justice had wide reverberations in the community.

When talking about sound waves bouncing back, or when a statement or idea is repeated or reinforced.

• Her voice created an echo in the empty hall.
• His opinion echoed the sentiment of the entire team.

Used when talking about careful thought or consideration, often about one's own thoughts or actions, or the reflected image in a mirror or other shiny surface.

• After much reflection, she decided to change her career path
• The lake was so calm that the mountains had a perfect reflection on its surface

Used when explaining the meaning of something, such as art, data, or a text, and can vary based on personal or cultural perspectives.

• Her interpretation of the poem shed new light on its themes
• The data requires careful interpretation to understand its implications

Used to describe how something or someone is portrayed or stands in place of something else, often used in contexts involving symbols, models, or delegation.

• The diagram is a visual representation of how the process works
• He acted as a representation of the company's interests at the meeting

Used when describing how something is represented in a work of art, literature, or media, focusing on the act of showing or describing.

• The movie's depiction of life in the 19th century was incredibly accurate
• The artist's depiction of the landscape captures its true beauty

Use when discussing deep thought about past actions, or when referring to a mirrored image.

• After the meeting, he spent some time in reflection.
• She saw her reflection in the still water.

Use when someone is thinking deeply or at length about something, often with a sense of seriousness or intention.

• He sat by the window to contemplate the meaning of life.
• She spent the afternoon contemplating her future.

Use in situations where someone is thinking carefully about possible options or consequences of a decision.

• She had to consider the pros and cons of the job offer.
• Please consider my feelings before making a decision.

Use when someone is thinking about something carefully, often before making a decision, usually more casual than 'contemplate'.

• He pondered whether he should go on vacation this year.
• She pondered over the question of what to have for dinner.