reflect seriously on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "reflect seriously on" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when encouraging someone to think deeply and thoughtfully about a particular subject or issue. Example: "Before making a decision, it is important to reflect seriously on the potential consequences of your actions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Yet none of the main political parties used the conference season to reflect seriously on what this will mean for public services and the social contract they embody.

The Guardian

I only hope that your passing the motion will be a wake-up call to educators and make them reflect seriously on why their use of technology has been such a disappointment.

The Economist

Bustos Domecq here sets down an account of the events that made him abandon his former life, move to a hotel under the name Aquiles Silberman, and reflect seriously on the relation of the mind and body.

The New Yorker

When it is not scaring you silly, this film invites you to reflect seriously on the fragility of modern civilization, which has been swept away -- while the hero lies peacefully in a coma -- by a gruesome and highly contagious virus.

The New York Times

The New Yorker, February 14 , 1970 P. 34Bustos Domecq here sets down an account of the events that made him abandon his former life, move to a hotel under the name Aquiles Silberman, and reflect seriously on the relation of the mind and body.

The New Yorker

Before anything else, though, let us reflect seriously on the profound mistakes we are making, individually and as a society, so that we will be less likely to make them again.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

An exuberant and engaging novel, it reflects seriously on whether the past can ever be laid to rest.

The Guardian - Books

As the publishers in Munich themselves pointed out recently: at a time when far-right xenophobia is rearing its head in Europe, reflecting seriously on the evils of history has to be a good thing.

The Guardian - Opinion

I realise that Anonymous has no central leadership or manifesto and that any overarching statement about its feminist politics is impossible, but I still think it's worth reflecting seriously on the tension between Anonymous's discernible values of anonymity, anti-censorship and lulz, and the goals of feminism.

The Guardian - Opinion

This accusation is totally false – but I have reflected seriously on this and do have something to apologize for.

Huffington Post

"The Malaysian authorities were very lenient and the Australian men were very repentant, but they do need to reflect very seriously on their conduct.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and context. While grammatically correct, "reflect seriously on" may sound formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "think deeply about" in informal settings.

Common error

Avoid using "reflect seriously on" in casual or informal writing where simpler phrases like "think about" or "consider" are more appropriate. Overusing formal language can make your writing sound stilted and unnatural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reflect seriously on" functions as a verb phrase indicating a deliberate and thoughtful process of consideration. It emphasizes the depth and importance of the reflection. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Wiki

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "reflect seriously on" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase for encouraging deep, thoughtful consideration. While Ludwig confirms its validity, it's important to note its uncommon frequency and formal tone. It is more suitable for News & Media or scientific contexts than for informal conversation. Consider alternatives like "think deeply about" or "consider thoughtfully" in less formal settings. The phrase's function is to prompt introspection and careful evaluation, emphasizing the importance of the subject at hand.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ponder deeply about

Replaces "reflect" with "ponder" and "seriously" with "deeply", altering the verb and adverb while maintaining the core meaning of thoughtful consideration.

contemplate thoroughly

Substitutes "reflect" with "contemplate" and "seriously" with "thoroughly", focusing on a comprehensive examination of the subject.

think deeply about

Uses the simpler verb "think" with the adverb "deeply", making it more accessible while retaining the essence of serious reflection.

consider thoughtfully

Replaces "reflect" with "consider" and "seriously" with "thoughtfully", emphasizing a deliberate and careful evaluation.

deliberate at length

Emphasizes the duration and thoughtfulness of the reflection, suitable when the process takes a significant amount of time.

meditate intently on

Suggests a more spiritual or introspective approach to reflection, implying a focused and sustained mental exercise.

ruminate profoundly about

Uses "ruminate" to suggest a deep and prolonged consideration, often with a sense of worry or concern.

give serious thought to

Shifts the focus to the act of giving consideration, emphasizing the importance of the topic being reflected upon.

weigh heavily upon

Implies that the subject of reflection is burdensome or significant, adding an emotional dimension to the consideration.

brood over

Suggests a troubled or anxious reflection, often dwelling on negative aspects of the subject.

FAQs

What does "reflect seriously on" mean?

The phrase "reflect seriously on" means to think deeply and thoughtfully about something, considering its implications and significance. It implies a deliberate and careful examination of a topic.

How can I use "reflect seriously on" in a sentence?

You can use "reflect seriously on" to encourage someone to think deeply about something. For example, "Before making a major life change, it's important to reflect seriously on the potential consequences."

What are some alternatives to "reflect seriously on"?

Alternatives include "think deeply about", "consider thoughtfully", or "ponder deeply about". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it ever incorrect to use "reflect seriously on"?

While grammatically correct, "reflect seriously on" may sound overly formal in casual conversations. In such situations, consider using simpler alternatives like "think about" or "consider".