ENGLISH
REFERENCE

reflective

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ɹɪˈfɫɛktɪv// UK //ɹɪflˈɛktɪv// re·flec·tive

adj. thinking deeply and quietly about something. It can also describe a surface that sends back light or heat, like a mirror.

adj. characterised by deep thought or introspection; also describes a surface capable of throwing back light, heat, or sound without absorbing it.


SIMPLE

She was in a reflective mood after the long meeting.

CONTEXTUAL

The safety vest is made of highly reflective material to ensure workers are visible to drivers at night.

COMPLEX

His latest collection of essays offers a reflective look at how urban architecture influences the social habits of its inhabitants over several generations.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Origin

From reflect + -ive.

Usage

Often follows a linking verb like 'become' or 'seem' when describing a person's mood.

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