reflect
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /rɪˈflɛkt/
KK: /rɪˈflɛkt/
intransitive verb
Definition
To bounce back light, sound, or thoughts; to think deeply about something.
Example
She often reflects on her experiences to learn from them.
Tense Forms
Past: reflected
Past Participle: reflected
Conversation
I often reflect on our high school days.
Me too! Those were some great times.
It’s interesting how those memories still shape us today.
Absolutely, they really reflect who we are now.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
mirror
echo
ponder
Antonyms
absorb
ignore
disregard
transitive verb
Definition
To show an image of something or to express a quality or idea.
Example
The calm lake reflects the beautiful mountains around it.
Tense Forms
Past: reflected
Past Participle: reflected
Conversation
Have you ever thought about how your actions reflect your personality?
Yeah, I think they say a lot about who we are.
Exactly! Sometimes, I feel like my choices really reflect my values.
Root Explanation
Reflect → It is formed from "re-" (meaning back) and "flectere" (meaning to bend). The word "reflect" means to bend back, as in light or sound bouncing off a surface.
Memory Tip
Think of light or sound 'bending back' ('re-') from a surface ('flectere') — that's why reflect means to bounce back.
Visually Confused Words
refect
redeflect
prelect
prefect
exflect
deflect
relet
elect