SELF-REFLECTION Synonyms: 31 Similar Words

self-reflection

noun

ˌself-ri-ˈflek-shən

Definition of self-reflection

as in introspection

examination of one's own thoughts and feelings after some self-reflection I realized that I hadn't been honest with my partner

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 self-reflection That friction is an opportunity for self-reflection. — Annie Joy Williams, The Atlantic, 28 June 2026 But also very enlightening and [a] profound time of self-reflection and fear, processing and meditation. — Kimi Robinson, USA Today, 23 June 2026 Miraval has long encouraged guests to limit or even forego their use of digital devices as a way of enhancing awareness of one’s surroundings and allowing moments for self-reflection and personal growth. — Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 3 June 2026 Opportunities for self-reflection abound across the summer calendar. — Kayla Samoy, Chicago Tribune, 3 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for self-reflection

Recent Examples of Synonyms for self-reflection

Noun

Dupuis’ introspection is always tethered to a greater sense of community.

— Grace Robins-Somerville, Pitchfork, 14 July 2026
Parts of the novel, especially those evoking Michel’s introspection, have a Jamesian density of psychological nuance.

— Richard Brody, New Yorker, 9 July 2026

Definition of introspection

Noun

But defeat left Koeman looking powerless and the Netherlands in need of new energy and new ideas as thoughts turn to the upcoming UEFA Nations League campaign and an increasingly familiar period of soul-searching for Dutch football.

— Amelie Claydon, New York Times, 30 June 2026
The group’s musical soul-searching is what gets most attention in the ReLoad box set.

— Kory Grow, Rolling Stone, 27 June 2026

Definition of soul-searching

Noun

When creating the novel, Akil was inspired by the collective interest in self-examination and the interior self.

— Dominique Fluker, Forbes.com, 29 June 2026
In fact, much of our technology is designed to distract us from, or worse, replace this loop of self-examination and improvement.

— Arianna Huffington, Time, 29 June 2026

Definition of self-examination

Noun

The purpose of this exercise is not to match your paradigm perfectly but to give you a thematic lens for self-observation.

— Liz Tran, CNBC, 5 Feb. 2026
There are three invitations leaders can offer their direct reports: Play with the technology as a tool for self-observation.

— Michael Hudson, Forbes.com, 29 May 2025

Definition of self-observation

Noun

Trish and Dan Bell Chapel The Trish and Dan Bell Chapel will serve as a gathering place for worship, contemplation and spiritual strengthening at FIU.

— Florida International University, Miami Herald, 1 July 2026
Many crude laughs were bolstered by the attached contemplation.

— Ben Travers, IndieWire, 30 June 2026

Definition of contemplation

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“Self-reflection.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/self-reflection. Accessed 17 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of self-reflection

noun

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