self-reflection

noun

self-re·​flec·​tion ˌself-ri-ˈflek-shən 

: self-examination sense 1

Synonyms of self-reflection

• introspection
• soul-searching
• self-examination
• self-observation
• contemplation

Examples of self-reflection in a Sentence

after some self-reflection I realized that I hadn't been honest with my partner

Recent Examples on the Web

This short is uniquely brilliant in its ability to balance laugh-out-loud levity with the emotional pain of honest self-reflection. —Matthew Carey, Deadline, 28 Jan. 2026

And, for that matter, that Rahman has undergone the necessary self-reflection and growth during his years in the political wilderness to truly become a leader for his people. —Charlie Campbell, Time, 28 Jan. 2026

This is why assessments that encourage self-reflection can be useful — not as diagnoses, but as mirrors. —Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 26 Jan. 2026

Some writers with Murphy’s body of work, then, would see a show like The Beauty as an opportunity for self-reflection and self-critique, but this has never been the thing that Ryan Murphy does best. —Daniel Fienberg, HollywoodReporter, 21 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1644, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for self-reflection

• circumspection
• disaffection
• disconnection
• disinfection
• dorsiflexion
• imperfection
• indirection
• insurrection
• intellection
• interjection
• intersection
• introjection