German word

reflektieren

Pronunciation

IPA/ʁeflɛkˈtiːʁən/

Meaning

  • verbreflect on

Example

Wir reflektieren die Ergebnisse.

We are reflecting on the results.

Illustration for reflektieren (reflect on)

More examples

Nach dem Feedback reflektieren wir in Ruhe die Konsequenzen.

After the feedback, we reflect calmly on the consequences.

Core concept

Thought returns to an event or decision, like a review that reveals its meaning and possible improvements.

Common phrases

  • die Ergebnisse reflektieren

    reflect on the results

  • über die Konsequenzen reflektieren

    reflect on the consequences

  • in Ruhe reflektieren

    reflect calmly

Similar words

nachdenken: Consider a problem or event carefully to organize thoughts and feelings.
überdenken: Review a decision or idea again to decide whether changes are needed.
überlegen: Think through the available options before making a decision.
analysieren: Study data or facts in detail to reveal causes or underlying mechanisms.

Definition in German

reflektieren bedeutet, über einen Sachverhalt oder das eigene Handeln nachzudenken, um es besser zu verstehen.

Word origin

The verb traces back to Latin reflectere, formed from re- 'back' and flectere 'bend', with German retaining the figurative idea of turning attention back to a subject.

Usage tips

  • A direct object is idiomatic with reflektieren, so German uses die Ergebnisse reflektieren without a preposition where English often uses reflect on the results.

Other meanings

  • considerverb
  • ponderverb
  • reflectverb

Opposites

  • überstürzenrushverb

Related words

  • Reflexionsphasereflection phasenoun

Word lists with this word