reflektieren
Translation
to reflect, to contemplate, to ponder
Examples
Der Spiegel reflektiert das Licht.
The mirror reflects the light.
Er reflektiert über seine Entscheidung.
He is reflecting on his decision.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) to reflect sth. The mirror reflects the light.
((über et4)) to reflect on sth. She is reflecting on her future.
Similar Words
Synonyms: nachdenken, überlegen (to think about); spiegeln (to mirror)
Etymology
From Latin 'reflectere' (re- 'back' + flectere 'to bend'). The idea is to 'bend back' light or thoughts.
Memory Tips
Think of a 'reflection' in a mirror (physical) and having a 'reflection' on a topic (mental). The German word covers both.