Meaning & Definition of word "Retrospect"

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    Retrospect

    /ˈrɛtrəˌspɛkt/

    noun:

    • 1. A survey or review of past events or a person's past.
      • Example: In retrospect, I wish I had taken that job opportunity.
    • 2. The action of looking back on or thinking about past events.
      • Example: The exhibit is a retrospect of the artist's career.

    verb:

    • 1. To think about or consider past events.
      • Example: Retrospecting on my childhood, I realize how carefree my life was.

    Etymology

    Late 19th century from Latin 'retro' meaning 'back' and 'spectare' meaning 'to look'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    in retrospect:

    looking back at past events with new knowledge

    hindsight is 20/20:

    it is easy to see things clearly after they have happened

    with the benefit of hindsight:

    considering past events with current knowledge

    Related Words

    reflection:

    the act of thinking deeply or carefully about something.

    recollection:

    the action of remembering something.

    retrospection:

    the act of looking back on or thinking about past events.

    Slang Meanings of retrospect

    Meaning: can refer to looking back fondly on something.

    Example Sentence: He had a good retrospect about his college life.

    Meaning: to refer to nostalgic reflection.

    Example Sentence: That movie gives me such a strong retrospect feeling.