reflect on someone/something, reflect the times, reflect well on someone/something

reflect credit on someone/something, reflect badly/poorly on someone/something, reflect back on something

Formal and Informal Expressions of reflect

In different contexts, you can replace 'reflect' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'contemplate, mull over, ruminate' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'think about, chew on, dwell on' is a commonplace synonym.

reflect: Explore its Definition & Usage

reflect Definition

1to throw back light, heat, or sound without absorbing it
2to show the image of something on a surface
3to think carefully and deeply about something

Using reflect: Examples

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

Example
The sun reflected off the water.
Example
The mirror reflected her face.
Example
She reflected on her past mistakes.
Example
His actions reflect his true character.
Example
The painting reflects the artist's emotions.

reflect Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for reflect

Antonyms for reflect

Idioms Using reflect

reflect on someone/something
to think carefully and deeply about someone or something
Example
He spent the evening reflecting on his life choices.
reflect the times
to represent the current social, political, or cultural climate
Example
The music of that era reflects the times in which it was created.
reflect well on someone/something
to make someone or something look good or successful
Example
Her dedication to her work reflects well on her character.

Phrases with reflect

reflect credit on someone/something
to make someone or something look good or successful
Example
Your hard work reflects credit on the entire team.
reflect badly/poorly on someone/something
to make someone or something look bad or unsuccessful
Example
His rude behavior reflects poorly on the company.
reflect back on something
to remember and think about something from the past
Example
As she looked through old photos, she reflected back on her childhood.

Origins of reflect

from Latin 'reflectere', meaning 'to bend back'

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Summary: reflect in Brief

The verb 'reflect' [rɪˈflekt] has three main meanings: to throw back light, heat, or sound without absorbing it; to show the image of something on a surface; and to think carefully and deeply about something. It can be used to describe physical phenomena like the sun reflecting off water or mirrors reflecting images, as well as mental processes like reflecting on past experiences or pondering a decision. The phrase 'reflect credit on' means to make someone or something look good, while 'reflect badly/poorly on' means the opposite. 'Reflect on' means to think carefully and deeply about something.