reflection
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reflection
Intensive thinking about a topic, an experience, or oneself. It is a process of mental engagement and self-examination.
Nach dem Streit zog er sich für einen Moment der stillen Reflexion zurück.
After the argument, he withdrew for a moment of quiet reflection.
'Die Reflexion' (reflection) is the noun related to the verb 'reflektieren' (to reflect). Both words can mean thinking about a topic as well as reflecting light or sound.
Es ist wichtig, das eigene Verhalten kritisch zu reflektieren.
It is important to critically reflect on one's own behavior.
You can recognize the meaning from the context. If it is about abstract topics such as feelings, decisions, or philosophy, it means 'Nachdenken' (reflection/thinking). If it is about light, sound, mirrors, or water, it refers to the physical meaning or a mirror image.
Sein Tagebuch dient der täglichen Reflexion.
His diary serves as daily reflection.
When 'Reflexion' (reflection) describes thinking, the topic is usually connected with the preposition 'über' and the accusative. Typical combinations are 'die Reflexion über sich selbst' (reflection on oneself) or 'die Reflexion über ein Problem' (reflection on a problem).
Der Aufsatz ist eine interessante Reflexion über die moderne Gesellschaft.
The essay is an interesting reflection on modern society.
In the physics meaning, 'Reflexion' (reflection) is often combined with 'von' to name the source, e.g. 'die Reflexion von Licht' (the reflection of light). The surface on which the reflection takes place is indicated with 'an' or 'auf'.
Wir untersuchten die Reflexion von Schallwellen an verschiedenen Materialien.
We examined the reflection of sound waves off different materials.
mirror
'der Spiegel' and 'die Reflexion' both have to do with reflected light and a visible image. 'Der Spiegel' is usually the object you look into. 'Die Reflexion' refers more to the physical process or the image created by reflected light. Learners may confuse the words because a mirror shows reflections. In everyday language, however, you say 'Ich schaue in den Spiegel' (I look in the mirror), not 'in die Reflexion'. 'Reflexion' sounds more precise when talking about light, glass, water, or a visible reflected image.
Auf dem nassen Boden sah man die Reflexion der Straßenlampen.
You could see the reflection of the streetlights on the wet ground.
Vor dem Termin schaut Anna noch kurz in den Spiegel.
Before the appointment, Anna takes a quick look in the mirror.