retrospect

[ˈrɛtrəspɛkt]

retrospect Definition

• 1. a survey or review of past events or experiences
• 2. consideration of past events, typically with a critical eye

Using retrospect: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "retrospect" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  In retrospect, I should have taken the job offer.

• Example

  The company's success was only visible in retrospect.

• Example

  In retrospect, it was clear that the project was doomed from the start.

retrospect Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for retrospect

• review
• reappraisal
• reassessment
• reconsideration
• reexamination

Antonyms for retrospect

• prospect
• anticipation

Phrases with retrospect

• in retrospect

  looking back on or reviewing past events or experiences

  Example

  In retrospect, I realize that I made a mistake.

• with the benefit of hindsight

  with the ability to understand an event or situation only after it has happened

  Example

  With the benefit of hindsight, we could have avoided the problem.

• retrospectively

  with reference to past events or situations

  Example

  The law was applied retrospectively to cover past events.

Origins of retrospect

from Latin 'retro-' meaning 'back' and 'specere' meaning 'look'

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Summary: retrospect in Brief

The term 'retrospect' [ˈrɛtrəspɛkt] refers to a review or consideration of past events or experiences, often with a critical eye. It is used to reflect on past decisions, as in 'In retrospect, I should have taken the job offer.' The phrase 'in retrospect' is commonly used to indicate looking back on past events, while 'with the benefit of hindsight' implies understanding an event only after it has happened.