introspection

USAGE SUMMARY

'introspection' is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to the process or act of examining one's own thoughts or feelings. For example, "After taking time for introspection, he decided to make some changes in his life."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In his case, you’d guess that it was related to an introspection developed in response to an unsettled early life and, second, to an imagination that served (and presumably serves) as a refuge from the knocks he took then.

The Guardian - Film

This mood of introspection opens new eyes on mental health in Gericault's portraits of the "insane".

The Guardian

That part actually helps with the emotional and ethical introspection.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Marina and the Diamonds: Froot Tight electropop steeped in introspection from the Welsh singer-songwriter, on this third album.

The Guardian - Music

Still, introspection is not really their thing.

The Guardian - Music

A habit of introspection seems to have fuelled both his music and what a friend called "the longest suicide in history".

The Economist

And in so far as they care about financial innovation at all, they expect it to come from tech groups, not today's incumbents.At the same time the financial crisis has led to a bout of introspection at banks.

The Economist

TAKE the plot of "Jane Eyre" (rich man with issues falls for innocent young lass), strip away the introspection, add some S&M sex and you have "Fifty Shades of Grey".

The Economist

A putsch might mean months of self-indulgent ministerial introspection at a time of economic difficulty.

The Economist

Mr Venkatesh is a fine storyteller, but his introspection can sound pat and he often states the obvious.

The Economist

So do not start this process of introspection two weeks before your application deadline.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "introspection" when you want to emphasize a deliberate and systematic examination of your own thoughts and feelings, especially when seeking self-awareness or personal growth.

Common error

Avoid using "introspection" when you simply mean thinking about something. "Introspection" implies a deeper, more structured self-examination, not just casual reflection.

Linguistic Context

Introspection primarily functions as a noun, denoting the act or process of self-examination. As demonstrated by Ludwig, it refers to the cognition which the mind has of its own acts and states, and is also related to self-consciousness and reflection.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Formal & Business

23%

Science

24%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "introspection" refers to the process of self-examination and reflection, typically used in neutral to formal contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, the word is grammatically correct and frequently appears in news and business domains. When writing, remember to use "introspection" to showcase a deeper, structured self-analysis rather than simple reflection. Explore alternatives like "self-reflection" or "soul-searching" for nuanced meanings. "Introspection" has the primary function as a noun, denoting internal examination aimed at self-discovery and understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

self-reflection

Focuses more on the reflective aspect of thought, less on the active investigation.

self-analysis

Emphasizes a structured and methodical examination of oneself.

inner contemplation

Highlights the meditative and thoughtful aspect of internal exploration.

soul-searching

Suggests a deep and often emotional examination of one's values and beliefs.

self-questioning

Involves actively challenging one's own assumptions and behaviors.

internal assessment

Implies a formal or structured evaluation of one's own strengths and weaknesses.

personal reckoning

Suggests a critical evaluation of one's past actions and their consequences.

reflective thinking

Focuses on the process of thinking deeply about experiences and learning from them.

inner examination

Highlights the act of scrutinizing one's inner thoughts and feelings.

heart-searching

Emphasizes the emotional and heartfelt nature of self-examination.

FAQs

How is "introspection" typically used in a sentence?

"Introspection" is commonly used as a noun to describe the act of self-examination. For example, "The period of "self reflection" led her to make significant life changes."

What are some alternatives to "introspection"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "self-reflection", "self-analysis", or "soul-searching". Each carries a slightly different nuance.

What's the difference between "introspection" and "reflection"?

"Introspection" is a more structured and in-depth examination of one's thoughts and feelings, while "reflection" is a more general term for thinking about something.

When is "introspection" most appropriate to use?

"Introspection" is most appropriate when referring to a deliberate and focused effort to understand one's own mind and emotions, often with the goal of personal growth or self-discovery.