retrospect

American  

[re-truh-spekt] / ˈrɛ trəˌspɛkt /

noun

1. contemplation of the past; a survey of past time, events, etc.

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verb (used without object)

1. to look back in thought; refer back (often followed byto ).

   to retrospect to a period in one's youth.

verb (used with object)

1. to look back upon; contemplate retrospectively.

idioms

1. in retrospect, in looking back on past events; upon reflection.

   It was, in retrospect, the happiest day of her life.

retrospect British  

/ ˈrɛtrəʊˌspɛkt /

noun

1. the act of surveying things past (often in the phrase in retrospect )

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verb

1. to contemplate (anything past); look back on (something)

2. to refer

Etymology

Origin of retrospect

1595–1605; probably retro- + (pro)spect

Example Sentences

In retrospect, that scene is bittersweet, too, reminding us of another small blessing that’s gone.

From Salon

“In retrospect, our exposure to First Brands was too large,” Great Elm Chief Executive Matt Kaplan told analysts in November.

From The Wall Street Journal

LeBron James’ capitalized and televised “Decision” to head to South Beach felt like arrogance in the moment and looks entirely justified in retrospect.

From Salon

In retrospect, even though he clearly disagreed with the hawks, Powell went to great lengths to give the hawks due deference in his October remarks.

From Barron's

“But the downsides were not weighed carefully enough in retrospect.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• hindsight