reflect
- 01 B1 Intermediate
to send back light, heat, or sound from a surface.
to throw back light, heat, or sound without absorbing it. Often used in scientific contexts regarding surfaces like glass or water.
Simple“The white walls reflect the sunlight and make the room feel much brighter.”
In context“The moon does not produce its own light; rather, it reflects the light of the sun toward the Earth's surface.”
UsageOften used with 'off' or 'from'.
- 02 B1 Intermediate
to show an image of something on a shiny surface like a mirror or water.
to produce an image of something on a reflective surface. Transitive when the surface is the subject; often used in the passive voice.
Simple“He stopped to look at his face reflected in the shop window.”
In context“The still surface of the lake perfectly reflected the snow-capped mountains, creating a symmetrical landscape of blue and white.”
- 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
to show a particular situation, feeling, or quality.
to serve as a representation or evidence of a specific quality, state, or character.
Simple“The low test scores reflect the fact that the students didn't have enough time to study.”
In context“The CEO's decision to increase the research budget reflects the company's long-term commitment to innovation and sustainable growth.”
SynonymsAntonyms - 04 B2 Upper Intermediate
to think carefully and seriously about something.
to engage in serious thought or consideration. Intransitive, typically followed by the preposition 'on'.
Simple“Before making a choice, you should take some time to reflect on your goals.”
In context“The retired diplomat spent his afternoons in the garden, reflecting on the complex geopolitical shifts he had witnessed during his career.”
UsageUsually takes the preposition 'on' or 'upon'.
Synonyms
Usage reflect the broader · reflect the views · reflect young
From Old French reflecter (“to bend back, turn back”), from Latin reflectō (“to reflect”), from re- (“again”) + flectō (“to bend, to curve”). Compare English reflex.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.