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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Example Sentences

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
  • Initially ruled a clean block in the 82nd minute, video review reversed the call and a handball was called on Angel City defender Sarah Gorden.
    Phuoc Nguyen, Chicago Tribune, 24 Aug. 2026
  • The carrier has since been at sea for more than 250 consecutive days during its nine-month deployment, marking a record-breaking stint for a carrier without a port stop, according to a review of the lone port-stop announcements and the prior record.
    Chris Quintana, USA Today, 24 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • If anything, the seven-game winning streak prompts some reconsiderations.
    Matt Gelb, New York Times, 22 Aug. 2026
  • Instead of constant reconsideration, leaders should pre-define specific evidence that would warrant a change in direction.
    Benjamin Laker, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Retrospection.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/retrospection. Accessed 29 Aug. 2026.

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