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reflect

Definition of reflectnext
1
as in to mirror
to reproduce or show (an exact likeness) as a mirror would her face was reflected in the waters of the still pond

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Synonym Chooser

How is the word reflect different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of reflect are cogitate, deliberate, reason, speculate, and think. While all these words mean "to use one's powers of conception, judgment, or inference," reflect suggests unhurried consideration of something recalled to the mind.

reflecting on fifty years of married life

Where would cogitate be a reasonable alternative to reflect?

While the synonyms cogitate and reflect are close in meaning, cogitate implies deep or intent thinking.

cogitated on the mysteries of nature

When is it sensible to use deliberate instead of reflect?

While in some cases nearly identical to reflect, deliberate suggests slow or careful reasoning before forming an opinion or reaching a conclusion or decision.

the jury deliberated for five hours

In what contexts can reason take the place of reflect?

The words reason and reflect can be used in similar contexts, but reason stresses consecutive logical thinking.

able to reason brilliantly in debate

When might speculate be a better fit than reflect?

The meanings of speculate and reflect largely overlap; however, speculate implies reasoning about things theoretical or problematic.

speculated on the fate of the lost explorers

When could think be used to replace reflect?

In some situations, the words think and reflect are roughly equivalent. However, think is general and may apply to any mental activity, but used alone often suggests attainment of clear ideas or conclusions.

teaches students how to think

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of reflect His views do not necessarily reflect those of his employer. Robert Steinbuch, Arkansas Online, 9 Jan. 2026 The Bulls offense has stagnated in the absence of White and Giddey, reflected in their struggles to break 100 points the last three games (93, 101 and 112). Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 8 Jan. 2026 The public trading debuts of two Chinese AI unicorns this week reflect the hype surrounding the sector as Beijing looks to rival the US’ leading tech startups. J.d. Capelouto, semafor.com, 8 Jan. 2026 Byrne's take on the song features different production and flips some of the lyrics to reflect his perspective as a 73-year-old man. Jack Irvin, PEOPLE, 8 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for reflect
Recent Examples of Synonyms for reflect
Verb
  • That size mirrors the size of professional esports competition monitors.
    Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 7 Jan. 2026
  • The show cars are life-size, real chassis that have been built to mirror the FIA/F1 renders, which teams can purchase to place in their factories, for hospitality events or use at the forthcoming launch events.
    Alex Kalinauckas, New York Times, 7 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Putin is yet to comment on the developments related to the tanker, which the US had previously sanctioned for carrying illicit Iranian oil.
    Kosta Gak, CNN Money, 9 Jan. 2026
  • Marsh's attorney, Keith Whiddon, declined to comment.
    Sarah N. Lynch, CBS News, 9 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Advertisement During his campaign, Mamdani often remarked on the huge amounts of money being spent to defeat him.
    Rebecca Schneid, Time, 5 Nov. 2025
  • The endorsement was predominately displayed on backdrop of Wambsganss’ remarks.
    Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 5 Nov. 2025
Verb
  • Citizens Utility Board expressed outrage at the request, noting the increase would push the utility's total rate increases to more than $1 billion in less than a decade.
    CBS Chicago Team, CBS News, 11 Jan. 2026
  • Deputies found Carter deceased on the scene, noting that no foul play was suspected.
    Kimberlee Speakman, PEOPLE, 11 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Weak shaking was observed in Danville and the surrounding area, where several residents reported feeling the tremor, according to the USGS DYFI report.
    CA Earthquake Bot, Sacbee.com, 9 Nov. 2025
  • When Armistice Day became a federal holiday in 1938, many states had already begun observing it.
    Mike Snider, USA Today, 9 Nov. 2025
Verb
  • In Kyiv, a CNN reporter said that the attack began around midnight, starting with multiple drone strikes on residential buildings.
    Kosta Gak, CNN Money, 9 Jan. 2026
  • Due to cold temperatures, emergency medical services were contacted to evaluate her, authorities said.
    Jasmine Baehr, FOXNews.com, 9 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Reflect.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/reflect. Accessed 13 Jan. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on reflect

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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