Reflejo
/reflexo/from spelling rules
The English word 'reflection' is translated into Spanish as Reflejo.
Reflejo is used to describe a physical reflection, such as an image seen in a surface. It can also refer to a biological reflex, which is an involuntary physical reaction to a stimulus.
Meaning: careful thought or consideration (noun)
Which one should you use?
It is important to distinguish between different types of reflection. Use Reflejo for physical reflections (like in a mirror) or biological reflexes. If you want to describe the mental process of reflection or careful thought, use reflexión instead. If you are speaking in a formal context and want to express the idea of reflection as a deep consideration, you can use meditación.
How do you pronounce it?
/reflexo/
What mistakes should you avoid?
Do not use Reflejo when you mean the mental process of careful thought. Use reflexión for that purpose.
Did you know?
- When talking about a biological reflex, such as the knee-jerk reaction, Spanish uses reflejo, the same word used for a mirror image.
- The word reflejo comes from the Latin 'reflexus', meaning 'to bend back', which is the same root used in the English word 'reflex'.
- In Spanish, the word reflejo can specifically describe the 'glare' or 'flare' of light hitting a camera lens or a window, not just a mirror image.
Examples in context
- Miro mi reflejo en el lago.I'm looking at my reflection in the lake.This sentence is useful for seeing how to use Reflejo when talking about an image in a lake.Tatoeba #994630 by hayastan, translation #1204167 by etoile
- Vi mi reflejo en el espejo.I saw my reflection in the mirror.This sentence shows how to use Reflejo regarding an image in a mirror.Tatoeba #11737242 by Seael, translation #2406080 by CK
- Tom vio su reflejo en el espejo.Tom saw his reflection in the mirror.This sentence demonstrates the use of Reflejo when describing someone seeing their reflection in a mirror.Tatoeba #1875065 by teskmon, translation #1874281 by CK
- La reflexión es un proceso importante para la toma de decisionesReflection is an important process for decision-making
- Estoy en un momento de profundo pensamientoI am in a moment of deep reflection
- 7 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Two friends are discussing a difficult life decision.
- SofíaNecesito un momento de reflejo sobre mi futuro.I need a moment of reflection on my future.
- JavierEs bueno pensar bien las cosas, Sofía.It is good to think things through, Sofia.
- SofíaSí, este reflejo me ayudará a decidir.Yes, this reflection will help me decide.
- JavierTómate el tiempo que necesites, Javier.Take the time you need, Javier.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries reflejo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
