Definition of retrospectionnext
as in retrospect
a usually critical look at a past event the president is confident that future retrospections will cast his actions in a more favorable light

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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 retrospection In 2026, portal days are particularly important as times of self-reflection and retrospection. Hannah Madlener, Glamour, 12 Dec. 2025 For Paola Sasplugas the 10th anniversary of her jewelry brand PDPaola has offered a moment of retrospection. Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 12 Nov. 2025 Though the new album deals in retrospection, the group continues moving forward. Jessica Nicholson, Billboard, 30 Oct. 2025 But framing Paul American as a retrospection on labor, with the boys and their family and their lackeys gassing them up over and over, just isn’t that interesting. Fran Hoepfner, Vulture, 28 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for retrospection
Recent Examples of Synonyms for retrospection
Noun
  • In retrospect, this sounds like foreshadowing … or at least a good omen.
    Jen Chaney, Vulture, 26 June 2026
  • What created the album’s alchemy is more obvious in retrospect.
    Natalie Weiner, Pitchfork, 19 June 2026
Noun
  • Creators who attended OpenAI’s first-ever influencer brand trip at a luxury resort in upstate New York posted glowing reviews of their private cabins, nature excursions and farm-to-table meals.
    Angela Yang, NBC news, 4 Aug. 2026
  • The software also tracks verbal commitments in a log called the Promise Ledger, so that staff can be held accountable during performance reviews.
    Evan Osnos, New Yorker, 3 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Furthermore, return-to-office mandates are flagged as a major talent risk, causing significant job reconsideration.
    Nancy Doyle, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026
  • Biden could have requested reconsideration by the full appeals court or asked the Supreme Court to intervene.
    Kaelan Deese, The Washington Examiner, 27 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Retrospection.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/retrospection. Accessed 9 Aug. 2026.

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