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noun B1 Intermediate Uncommon

retrospect

REHT-ruh-spehkt

Retrospect (noun) means a look back at, or consideration of, past events. Example: “In retrospect, taking that job was the best decision she ever made.”

noun
1
A look back at, or consideration of, past events.
"In retrospect, taking that job was the best decision she ever made."

How to use retrospect

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishLooking back on something after it has happened, often with hindsight.

Common pairings
in retrospect on retrospect

Word forms

retrospected past tense, retrospects plural, retrospects singular

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

In _____, taking that job was the best decision she ever made.

Etymology

From Latin retrospicere, "to look back at."

Origin: Latin

Rhymes for retrospect

See all rhymes for retrospect →

Frequently asked questions

What does “retrospect” mean?

The word “retrospect” means a look back at, or consideration of, past events. In plain terms, looking back on something after it has happened, often with hindsight.

How do you pronounce “retrospect”?

“Retrospect” is pronounced REHT-ruh-spehkt (/ˈɹɛtɹəˌspɛkt/ in IPA).

How do you use “retrospect” in a sentence?

Here is “retrospect” used in a sentence: “In retrospect, taking that job was the best decision she ever made.”

What part of speech is “retrospect”?

“Retrospect” is a noun.

Where does the word “retrospect” come from?

The word “retrospect” comes from Latin. From Latin retrospicere, "to look back at.".

Is “retrospect” a common word?

“Retrospect” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial