reflect on

B2 neutral inseparable transitive

In simple words

to stop and think seriously about something

Literal meaning: to bend thought back onto something

Meanings

1 B2 idiomatic neutral

common

to think deeply and carefully about something, especially an experience, idea, or event

"After the meeting, I took a walk to reflect on what had been said."

"As I reflect on the many people who’ve shaped my life and my values, I know how lucky I am."
— Michelle Obama, public speeches/interviews

Grammar: inseparable

Usage notes

Common in writing, education, and thoughtful speech. It often suggests calm, deliberate thinking about past events or important ideas.

experience past life decision event question

Base

reflect on

I/you/we/they

3rd person

reflects on

he/she/it

Past simple

reflected on

yesterday

Past participle

reflected on

have + pp

-ing form

reflecting on

continuous

Try:

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think about consider contemplate meditate on ponder

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