reflection on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "reflection on" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that you are thinking deeply or seriously about something. For example: "I spent the evening in reflection on the events of the day."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Scandal forces reflection on one's self and one's relationships.

Huffington Post

A reflection on one of live music's worst traditions.

Vice

My reflection on these last verses is one of disagreement.

Huffington Post

A reflection on a window.

The New York Times

His reflection on his breakthrough film?

Independent

That's no reflection on Pat.

The New York Times - Sports

It's no reflection on you".

The New York Times

"It's a reflection on them".

The New York Times

My decision is no reflection on The Times.

The New York Times

Where's the reflection on the modern cinema?

The New Yorker

Write a reflection on your findings.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "reflection on" to introduce a thoughtful analysis or consideration of a topic, signaling depth and careful thought.

Common error

Avoid using "reflection on" in informal conversations or writing, as it can sound overly formal or pretentious. Simpler phrases like "thinking about" or "considering" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reflection on" functions as a prepositional phrase, often used to introduce a noun or noun phrase that represents the object of thought or contemplation. It indicates a process of thinking deeply about something. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

23%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "reflection on" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase that indicates deep and thoughtful consideration of a subject. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage across various contexts. While versatile, it's best suited for neutral to formal settings such as news reports, academic papers, and analytical essays. When choosing an alternative, consider options like "contemplation of" or "analysis of" to best align with the intended meaning. Avoid overuse in casual contexts to maintain clarity and avoid sounding pretentious. By understanding these nuances, writers can effectively use "reflection on" to add depth and sophistication to their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

contemplation of

Emphasizes a more meditative and prolonged thought process compared to "reflection on".

consideration of

Highlights a careful and thorough examination of a topic, possibly involving multiple perspectives.

analysis of

Suggests a more structured and detailed breakdown of a subject, often with the goal of understanding its components.

meditation on

Implies a deep and sustained focus on a particular issue or concept, often for spiritual or personal growth.

deliberation about

Focuses on the careful discussion and weighing of different options or viewpoints.

thinking about

Represents a general sense of considering something, less formal than "reflection on".

review of

Implies a systematic assessment or evaluation of something, often with the aim of improvement.

assessment of

Signifies an evaluation to determine the importance, size, or value of something.

scrutiny of

Denotes a critical and detailed examination, often with the aim of uncovering flaws or inconsistencies.

study of

Indicates a formal, detailed investigation into a subject.

FAQs

How can I use "reflection on" in a sentence?

Use "reflection on" to introduce a deep consideration of a topic. For example: "His "reflection on" the war led him to question his beliefs".

What are some alternatives to "reflection on"?

Alternatives include "contemplation of", "consideration of", or "analysis of", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "reflection on" and "reflexion on"?

"Reflection on" is the standard spelling in English. "Reflexion on" is an archaic spelling and is rarely used today.

When is it appropriate to use "reflection on" in writing?

It is appropriate when discussing deep thought or analysis. It works well in academic papers, news articles, or personal essays. Avoid using it in very informal contexts, where alternatives like "thinking about" or "considering" are more suitable.