intellectual reflection

USAGE SUMMARY

"intellectual reflection" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You could use it when referring to someone or something that is engaging in an analytical or thought-provoking examination of a situation or topic. For example: "The professor's intellectual reflections on the crisis added a valuable perspective to the discussion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Their defection was the product of intellectual reflection; Brock's was the result of harrowing experience.

The New Yorker

It's an intellectual reflection, even things as simple as remembering the steps.

Independent

On the one hand, it is allegorical and didactic, directed toward intellectual reflection and theological meditation.

The New York Times

But under Benjamin's eye, the faded arcade became something new again: an intellectual reflection.

The New York Times - Books

There are some theoretical issues around what "improvement" and "suffering" mean, but the answer comes mostly not from intellectual reflection but empirical observation.

The Guardian - Opinion

"It is an intellectual reflection upon the fact that God constantly creates the universe, and that is a basic principle of faith," he said of Birchat HaChammah.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Traveling from San Francisco to Los Angeles and back again (along California's historic El Camino Real) we hear Olson's intimate vulnerability of desire and her contrasting intellectual reflections on the state's history.

Huffington Post

Because creative process tends to be given more weight than physical material, and because art should be about intellectual inquiry and reflection rather than beauty and aesthetic pleasure (as traditionally conceived), the identity of the work of art is said to lie in the idea at the heart of the piece in question.

SEP

What we were learning came from the thoughtful reflection, intellectual engagement and faithful wrestling of our mothers and fathers in faith.

Huffington Post

"Both the savage, smelly humans and the snooty ape intellectuals are a reflection of humanity's inhumanity," adds Handley.

BBC

CAS aims to provide students with opportunities for personal growth, self-reflection, intellectual, physical and creative challenges, and awareness of themselves as responsible members of their communities through participation in social or community work (service), athletics or other physical activities (action), and creative activities (creativity).

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "intellectual reflection" when you want to emphasize the analytical and thoughtful nature of contemplation on a subject. This term is particularly useful in academic or philosophical contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "intellectual reflection" when you mean a spontaneous or automatic response (reflex). Reflection implies deliberate thought, while reflex suggests an immediate reaction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intellectual reflection" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where 'intellectual' acts as an adjective modifying the noun 'reflection'. It describes a specific type of reflection that involves cognitive and analytical processes. Ludwig AI's analysis and examples confirm its use in denoting thoughtful examination.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

43%

Encyclopedias

14%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "intellectual reflection" is a valid phrase denoting deep and analytical thinking. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, usage in academic and news contexts, and overall suitability for formal writing. While less common in informal settings, it effectively conveys deliberate and thoughtful consideration. Synonyms like "thoughtful consideration" and "deep contemplation" provide alternative expressions for similar concepts. Remember to use it when you want to convey thoughtful contemplation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intellectual analysis

Focuses on the analytical aspect using the same concept of intellectual.

thoughtful consideration

Emphasizes the careful and deliberate nature of the thinking process.

deep contemplation

Highlights the profound and immersive nature of the reflective thought.

critical analysis

Focuses on the analytical and evaluative aspect of the thought process.

philosophical musing

Implies a reflection on fundamental questions and abstract concepts.

cognitive deliberation

Stresses the cognitive and reasoned nature of the reflective process.

scholarly introspection

Connects reflection with academic or intellectual self-examination.

reasoned examination

Focuses on the logic and justification behind the reflective thought.

contemplative inquiry

Highlights the questioning and investigative nature of the reflection.

cerebral assessment

Emphasizes the intellectual and analytical approach to evaluation.

FAQs

How is "intellectual reflection" used in academic writing?

In academic writing, "intellectual reflection" often refers to a deep and analytical consideration of theories, concepts, or research findings. It implies a thoughtful engagement with the material beyond simple memorization or summarization.

What are some synonyms for "intellectual reflection"?

Alternatives to "intellectual reflection" include "thoughtful consideration", "deep contemplation", or "critical analysis", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "intellectual reflection" appropriate for informal conversation?

While grammatically correct, "intellectual reflection" may sound overly formal in casual conversation. Simpler terms like "thinking deeply" or "pondering" might be more suitable in informal settings.

What is the difference between "intellectual reflection" and "emotional response"?

"Intellectual reflection" focuses on rational and analytical thought processes, while "emotional response" refers to reactions driven by feelings and sentiments. The former prioritizes logic and reasoning, whereas the latter is based on subjective experience.