What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
reflective
Example
She was very reflective before making any decisions. [reflective: adjective]
Example
The water in the lake was so reflective, it looked like a mirror. [reflective: adjective]
Example
Her reflective essay on her personal growth was very moving. [reflective: adjective]
thoughtful
Example
He was very thoughtful and always remembered her birthday. [thoughtful: adjective]
Example
She gave me a thoughtful gift that showed she really knew me. [thoughtful: adjective]
Example
His thoughtful analysis of the situation helped us come up with a solution. [thoughtful: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Thoughtful is more commonly used than reflective in everyday language. Thoughtful is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while reflective is less common and has a more specific meaning.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between reflective and thoughtful?
Both reflective and thoughtful can be used in formal and informal contexts, but reflective may be perceived as more formal due to its association with introspection and deep thought.
