to reflect
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to reflect
To show the mirror image of something or someone, as a reflective surface (e.g., water or glass) does. It can also be used reflexively (sich widerspiegeln).
Die Lichter der Stadt spiegelten sich im nassen Asphalt wider.
The city lights were reflected in the wet asphalt.
to reflect
To be an expression of something; to reveal or make something recognizable. It shows that one thing represents another or is influenced by it.
Die Ergebnisse der Umfrage spiegeln die Unzufriedenheit der Bevölkerung wider.
The survey results reflect the population's dissatisfaction.
'Widerspiegeln' (to reflect) is a separable verb. The prefix 'wider' separates from the verb in a main clause and stands at the end of the sentence.
Der See spiegelt die Berge klar wider.
The lake clearly reflects the mountains.
The literal meaning (m01) refers to physical surfaces such as water, glass, or mirrors. The figurative meaning (m02) refers to abstract things such as data, opinions, feelings, or results.
Ihr Gesicht spiegelte sich im Fenster wider.
Her face was reflected in the window.
In the literal meaning, the verb is very often used reflexively with 'sich' (oneself). The thing in which something is reflected is then introduced with the preposition 'in' and the dative.
Die Wolken spiegelten sich im ruhigen Wasser des Sees wider.
The clouds were reflected in the calm water of the lake.
In the figurative meaning, 'widerspiegeln' (to reflect) is often used with abstract subjects, e.g., 'die Ergebnisse' (the results), 'die Zahlen' (the numbers), 'die Kunst' (the art), or 'sein Verhalten' (his behavior).
Sein Verhalten spiegelt seine Unsicherheit wider.
His behavior reflects his insecurity.
to reflect / mirror
Both verbs can express that something else becomes recognizable. spiegeln is especially suitable for directly reflecting an image or light; widerspiegeln often highlights an indirect correspondence through which characteristics, feelings, or influences become visible. spiegeln suits a literal reflection, while widerspiegeln suits a representational effect.
Die Umfrage widerspiegelt die Sorgen der Bevölkerung.
The survey reflects the concerns of the population.
Die Fensterscheibe spiegelt die Lichter der Straße.
The windowpane reflects the lights from the street.
