soul-searching

[sohl-sur-ching]

noun

1. the act or process of close and penetrating analysis of oneself, to determine one's true motives and sentiments.

soul-searching

noun

1. deep or critical examination of one's motives, actions, beliefs, etc

adjective

1. displaying the characteristics of deep or painful self-analysis

Word History and Origins

Origin of soul-searching¹

First recorded in 1605–15

Example Sentences

Among the Democratic soul-searching, Harris' candidacy is often disparaged, her weaknesses as a leader pinpointed as the reasons for her defeat, not just the last-minute nature of Biden's decision.

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In India, the unexpected pummeling by a putative partner has led to anger and soul-searching.

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The alleged scam, and others like it, led to extensive soul-searching by streaming services on how to better protect artists from people abusing AI to siphon off royalty payments.

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Israel’s growing isolation has widened fissures between its far-right and more globalist left, and caused soul-searching over how far a nation should go to defend itself.

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Instead, they have spent the 11 months since former Vice President Kamala Harris’ election loss soul-searching, holding meetings with highly-paid consultants and other experts to determine a way forward.

Read more on Salon

Related Words

• contemplation 
• reflection 
• rumination 
• self-examination