to reflect on

USAGE SUMMARY

"to reflect on" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to express that someone is thinking carefully and deeply about a particular topic, idea, or situation. For example, "I took some time to reflect on the changes in my life."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Every game has something to reflect on," Mastroeni said.

The Guardian - Sport

He needs to reflect on that situation.

Independent

"We really need to reflect on this".

The New York Times

It's something to reflect on.

The New York Times

Plenty there for London to reflect on.

The Guardian

I don't want to reflect on that.

The New York Times - Sports

There is, though, plenty to reflect on.

The New York Times - Sports

I need time to reflect on them".

The Guardian - Sport

This is rather appropriate to reflect on.

Harvard University

Now that's a prospect to reflect on.

The Economist

It is intriguing to reflect on Szymanowski's deeper motivations.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to reflect on" when you want to emphasize thoughtful consideration of an event, idea, or decision. It's suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Don't use "to reflect on" if you simply want to recall a memory or state a fact. "Remembering" or "mentioning" are more appropriate in such cases. "To reflect on" implies a deeper level of thought and analysis.

Linguistic Context

The infinitive phrase "to reflect on" typically functions as an adverbial modifier expressing the purpose or reason for an action. Ludwig AI, based on numerous examples, confirms its correct usage in indicating thoughtful consideration.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Formal & Business

16%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Science

8%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to reflect on" is a versatile infinitive phrase used to convey thoughtful consideration and analysis. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. Its frequency is categorized as 'Common', primarily appearing in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Academic contexts. While suitable for various registers, avoid using it when simple recall is sufficient. Alternatives include "to contemplate" and "to consider", each carrying slightly different connotations. Remember, the essence of "to reflect on" lies in prompting deeper understanding and introspection.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to contemplate

Focuses on deep thinking and consideration, suggesting a more internal process than "to reflect on".

to mull over

Implies a more casual and prolonged consideration of something, often a problem or decision.

to deliberate

Suggests a more formal and structured process of thinking, often in a group setting.

to consider

Is a more general term for thinking about something, without necessarily implying deep thought.

to meditate on

Suggests a more spiritual and focused form of reflection.

to think about

Is the most basic and general way to express considering something.

to ruminate

Implies a deep and often anxious consideration of something.

to review

Focuses on looking back at something already done or experienced.

to retrospect

Focuses on looking back at past events, often with a sense of nostalgia.

to brood over

Implies a negative and prolonged consideration of something, often a problem or loss.

FAQs

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

You can use "to reflect on" to indicate thoughtful consideration. For example, "It's important "to reflect on" your past mistakes to avoid repeating them".

What are some alternatives to "to reflect on"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "to contemplate", "to consider", or "to think about".

Is it correct to say "reflecting on" instead of "to reflect on"?

Yes, "reflecting on" can be used, especially as a gerund phrase at the beginning of a sentence. For instance, "Reflecting on my experiences, I realized..."

What's the difference between "to reflect on" and "to reminisce about"?

"To reflect on" involves deeper analysis and learning from past experiences, while "to reminisce about" is more about fondly recalling past events.