reflect an image

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "reflect an image" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing how a surface or object shows or displays a visual representation of something, typically in a literal or metaphorical sense. Example: "The calm lake was so clear that it could perfectly reflect an image of the surrounding mountains."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Because it is impossible to sight through the instrument and look at the compass card simultaneously, a prism (mirror) is positioned to reflect an image of the card, which is given a second set of graduations with reversed figures.

Encyclopedia Britannica

To show that the surface was indeed a mirror, the researchers used it to reflect an image of the number eight made by shining light through a transparent ruler.

Science Magazine

Mirrors reflect an image that tells us superficially what we look like.

Huffington Post

As the head of al-Azhar, the Muslim world's oldest religious institution, said, "I think showing these photos will not be wise and will reflect an image of American hubris".

Huffington Post

A mirror (width 200 mm, height 140 mm) was placed underneath the disk at a 45° angle to reflect an image of the underside of a head-fixed mouse onto a high-speed CCD camera (RM-6740CL; JAI).

Current Biology

Smoking in this context played a functional role in assisting young people to reflect an image that was "rebellious," "cool", or "grown up": Oh well, I grew up running around and yelling out gang names… Yeah so for me it was something to fit in with the group.

BMC Public Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Egyptologists sent from Paris, Berlin, and London had begun using a camera lucida — a prismatic lens reflecting an image — to make more accurate tracings.

The New Yorker

"It reflects an image of the Sun onto a piece of paper, so you can see the contrast," Ms. Morris said.

The New York Times

When a mirror, for example, reflects an image of a beautiful object, it does not make any discriminatory value judgment that it is beautiful.

SEP

When I see myself as I step out of the shower, the foggy mirror reflecting an image back to me.

Huffington Post

Throughout the music video, Clarkson is shown singing on the front porch, her mother's bed and a room full of mirrors, reflecting an image of her younger self.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "reflect an image", consider the context to ensure it accurately conveys the intended meaning. It is most appropriate when describing a literal mirroring or a strong representation of something.

Common error

Avoid using "reflect an image" when a simpler term like "show" or "represent" would be clearer. Overusing this phrase in abstract or metaphorical contexts can make your writing sound pretentious or unclear.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reflect an image" functions as a verb phrase, where "reflect" is the verb and "an image" is the direct object. This phrase describes the action of something showing or displaying a visual representation. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Huffington Post

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

17%

Wiki

17%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "reflect an image" is a grammatically sound expression used to describe the act of mirroring or visually representing something. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. While not exceedingly common, it appears in diverse contexts, ranging from news and media to scientific and encyclopedic sources. When writing, ensure the context aligns with the intended meaning, avoiding overuse in overly abstract situations. Alternatives such as "mirror an image" or "show an image" can provide clarity depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mirror an image

Uses a different verb to convey the same concept of creating a mirrored visual representation.

show an image

Replaces "reflect" with a more general verb, indicating the act of displaying an image.

display an image

Similar to "show an image", but with a slightly more formal tone.

project an image

Implies a deliberate casting or showing of an image onto a surface.

represent an image

Focuses on the idea of symbolizing or standing for an image.

give an image

Suggests providing or offering a particular visual impression.

convey an image

Emphasizes the communication or transmission of a certain visual idea.

capture an image

Highlights the act of seizing or recording a visual representation.

render an image

Focuses on the processing or creation of a visual depiction.

reproduce an image

Emphasizes the act of creating a copy or duplicate of an image.

FAQs

How can I use "reflect an image" in a sentence?

You can use "reflect an image" to describe how a surface shows a visual representation, as in "The calm lake could perfectly reflect an image of the surrounding mountains". It can also be used metaphorically.

What can I say instead of "reflect an image"?

You can use alternatives like "mirror an image", "show an image", or "display an image" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "reflects an image" or "reflect an image"?

The correct form depends on the subject. Use "reflects an image" for singular subjects (e.g., "The mirror reflects an image") and "reflect an image" for plural subjects or when used as an infinitive (e.g., "Mirrors reflect an image", "to reflect an image").

What's the difference between "reflect an image" and "represent an image"?

"Reflect an image" typically implies a direct mirroring or faithful visual depiction. "Represent an image", on the other hand, suggests symbolizing or standing for an image, which can be more abstract.