Reflectively: meaning, definitions and examples

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reflectively

 

[rɪˈflɛktɪvli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

used in introspection

In a reflective manner, characterized by deep thought or contemplation.

Synonyms

contemplatively, meditatively, thoughtfully.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
reflectively

Used when someone is thinking deeply, often about their past actions or events. It suggests a careful consideration of one's experiences or decisions.

  • She stared out the window reflectively, thinking about her childhood.
  • He spoke reflectively about his time in the army.
thoughtfully

Appropriate when someone is considering something carefully, often related to making decisions or thinking about others' feelings. It can also imply kindness or concern.

  • He answered her questions thoughtfully, taking his time to consider each one.
  • She packed a lunch for him thoughtfully, including his favorite snacks.
contemplatively

Best suited for moments of deep thought or reflection, often about larger life questions or philosophical issues. It can imply a slow, careful thought process.

  • She sat in the garden contemplatively, pondering the meaning of life.
  • He looked at the painting contemplatively, lost in his thoughts.
meditatively

Used when someone is engaged in deep thought, often in a calm, serene manner. This word is closely associated with practices of meditation or mindfulness.

  • She sat meditatively on the beach, focusing on her breath.
  • He walked through the park meditatively, enjoying the silence.

Examples of usage

  • She looked reflectively out the window.
  • He answered reflectively after a moment of silence.
Context #2 | Adjective

describing a person or their actions

Relating to or characterized by deep thought; thoughtful.

Synonyms

contemplative, meditative, thoughtful.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
reflectively

Used when someone is thinking deeply and seriously about something, often in a calm and quiet manner.

  • He gazed out of the window reflectively, lost in thought.
  • She spoke reflectively about her past experiences.
thoughtful

Implying that someone is thinking carefully and seriously, often about the feelings and needs of others.

  • Her thoughtful gesture really brightened my day.
  • He is always very thoughtful when it comes to planning events.
contemplative

Describing a state where someone is absorbed in deep thought, often with a focus on spiritual or philosophical matters.

  • The monk led a contemplative life, spending most of his time reflecting on the nature of existence.
  • She enjoyed her contemplative walks in the park.
meditative

Associated with practices aimed at achieving mental clarity and emotional calm, often in the context of activities like meditation.

  • Yoga involves meditative practices that help calm the mind.
  • He finds listening to soft music meditative after a long day.

Examples of usage

  • His reflective nature made him a great philosopher.
  • She made a reflective decision after careful consideration.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'reflectere', which means 'to bend back'.
  • It entered the English language in the late 15th century, initially related to light and mirrors before evolving into a mental state.
  • The prefix 're-' indicates a return to a previous state, while '-ive' suggests it's a quality or state of being.

Psychology

  • Reflective thinking is crucial for personal growth, allowing individuals to analyze their actions and learn from experiences.
  • Researchers highlight that reflective practices can lead to improved problem-solving and decision-making skills.
  • Journaling is often recommended as a reflective practice, promoting self-awareness and emotional processing.

Education

  • Reflective learning engages students by encouraging them to think about their learning processes and outcomes.
  • Educators often use reflective essays as assessments to gauge understanding and personal growth in students.
  • Methods like K-W-L charts (What I Know, What I Want to Know, What I've Learned) foster reflection among learners.

Literature

  • Many authors employ reflective narratives, allowing characters to ponder their experiences and decisions throughout a story.
  • The theme of reflection often appears in poetry, where poets explore personal feelings and memories.
  • Writers like Virginia Woolf and Marcel Proust are known for their reflective styles, capturing fleeting moments of consciousness.

Mindfulness

  • Practicing mindfulness often involves reflective thinking, where individuals focus on their thoughts, feelings, and sensations without judgment.
  • Mindful reflection can enhance emotional intelligence, helping people understand and manage their emotions better.
  • Techniques such as meditation often incorporate reflective practices to promote peace and self-discovery.

Translations

Translations of the word "reflectively" in other languages:

🇵🇹 reflexivamente

🇮🇳 प्रतिबिंबित रूप से

🇩🇪 reflektierend

🇮🇩 dengan reflektif

🇺🇦 рефлексивно

🇵🇱 refleksyjnie

🇯🇵 反射的に

🇫🇷 réflexivement

🇪🇸 reflexivamente

🇹🇷 düşünceli bir şekilde

🇰🇷 반사적으로

🇸🇦 بشكل انعكاسي

🇨🇿 reflexivně

🇸🇰 reflexívne

🇨🇳 反射性地

🇸🇮 refleksivno

🇮🇸 íhugandi

🇰🇿 рефлексивті түрде

🇬🇪 რეფლექსიურად

🇦🇿 reflektiv olaraq

🇲🇽 reflexivamente

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,103, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.