Translation guide
The English word 'reflecting' can refer to thinking deeply, showing an image, or representing something. This guide helps learners express these ideas naturally in Japanese.
To express the act of thinking carefully about something, often about the past or oneself.
Commonly used for reflecting on one's own actions or mistakes, often with a sense of regret or self-evaluation.
自分の行動を反省している。
I am reflecting on my actions.
Literally 'look back', used for reflecting on past events or experiences in a neutral or nostalgic way.
今年を振り返って、いろいろあった。
Reflecting on this year, a lot happened.
Formal term for deep, careful consideration. Used in serious or academic contexts.
その問題について熟考した。
I reflected deeply on the problem.
To describe a surface that sends back light or an image.
Transitive verb meaning to reflect an image. Used when a surface shows something.
鏡が顔を映している。
The mirror is reflecting my face.
Intransitive verb meaning to be reflected. Used when an image appears on a surface.
Technical term for reflecting light, sound, or waves. Used in scientific contexts.
光が鏡で反射する。
Light reflects off a mirror.
To indicate that something is a sign or result of something else.
Used when something reflects an underlying condition, trend, or quality.
彼の作品は彼の性格を反映している。
His work reflects his personality.
General verb meaning to express or represent. Can be used when something shows a feeling or idea.
この数字は現状をよく表している。
These numbers accurately reflect the current situation.
反省する implies self-criticism or regret, often used for personal mistakes. 振り返る is more neutral, simply looking back on past events without necessarily judging them.
失敗を反省する。
Reflect on one's mistakes (with regret).
学生時代を振り返る。
Look back on one's school days.
反省する carries a nuance of regret or self-criticism. For neutral reflection on past events, use 振り返る instead.
楽しかった旅行を振り返った。
I reflected on the enjoyable trip.
I reflected on the enjoyable trip.
The mountains are reflected in the lake.