Reframe - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

changing perspective

To reframe is to change the way something is expressed or perceived. It involves altering the contextual lens through which information or experiences are understood, often to foster a more positive or constructive viewpoint.

Synonyms

reconceptualize, recontextualize, reinterpret, restructure.

Examples of usage

She reframed her failure as a learning opportunity.
The teacher reframed the question to encourage critical thinking.
He reframed the conversation to focus on solutions rather than problems.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Reframing is a technique used in therapy to help people see their problems from a new perspective, which can reduce stress.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy often employs reframing to challenge negative thought patterns and create healthier ones.
Research shows that people who can reframe challenges are generally more resilient and adaptable to change.

Education

Teachers use reframing to help students understand complex subjects, making them relatable and easier to grasp.
Reframing can foster a growth mindset in learners, encouraging them to see failures as opportunities to learn.
Using reframing techniques can enhance creativity in education, as students can brainstorm new solutions to problems.

Communication

In negotiations, reframing helps individuals present their ideas in ways that align with the interests of others.
Effective communicators use reframing to shift the focus of discussions, transforming conflicts into collaborative dialogues.
Reframing language in conflict situations can reduce tension and promote more positive interactions.

Marketing

Advertisers often reframe products by emphasizing benefits in ways that resonate with consumer needs and desires.
Reframing a brand’s image can help revitalize its presence in the market and attract new customers.
Successful marketing campaigns often include reframing messages to highlight innovation and value.

Art

Artists commonly use reframing in their work to encourage viewers to see familiar subjects from different angles.
The concept of reframing is prominent in contemporary art, where artists challenge traditional interpretations through new contexts.
Art installations can reframe space itself, altering perceptions of both the artwork and the environment surrounding it.

Origin of 'reframe'

The word 'reframe' is derived from the prefix 're-', meaning 'again' or 'back', combined with the word 'frame', which dates back to Middle English 'framen', meaning 'to construct' or 'to shape'. The term gained prominence in psychological and therapeutic contexts during the 20th century, largely associated with cognitive behavioral therapy where it refers to the technique of changing one's thoughts and perceptions about a situation. This practice encourages individuals to alter their mental 'frame' in which they interpret events, leading to different emotional outcomes and behaviors. Over time, the use of 'reframe' has expanded beyond psychology into everyday language, especially in discussions about problem-solving and communication.

Reframe Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations