in retrospect
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/ɪn rɪˈspɛkt/
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Looking back now and thinking about how things happened.
Examples
She laughed, in retrospect, at the worries she had before the exam.
In retrospect, the decision seemed risky, but it paid off.
He told his friend, in retrospect, that the move was the best thing he ever did.
In retrospect, we should have booked the tickets earlier.
The documentary shows that in retrospect, the policy had unintended consequences.
Similar words
with hindsight
upon reflection
in hindsight
looking back
after the fact
Meanings
Examples
In retrospect, we should have booked the tickets earlier.
She laughed, in retrospect, at the worries she had before the exam.
In retrospect, the decision seemed risky, but it paid off.
He told his friend, in retrospect, that the move was the best thing he ever did.
The documentary shows that in retrospect, the policy had unintended consequences.
Similar words
looking back
with hindsight
after the fact
in hindsight
upon reflection
FAQ
What does in retrospect mean?
It means looking back now and thinking about how things happened.
How is in retrospect used in a sentence?
You can say, “In retrospect, I should have studied more for the exam.”
Is in retrospect formal or informal?
The phrase is neutral; it is not especially formal or informal.
What is the everyday domain of in retrospect?
It belongs to everyday language.
What are some synonyms for in retrospect?
Synonyms include looking back, with hindsight, after the fact, in hindsight, upon reflection.
How does in retrospect differ from with hindsight?
In retrospect focuses on personal reflection, while hindsight often implies a broader, sometimes more objective view.
Can in retrospect be used to talk about past events only?
Yes, it is used only to refer to events that have already occurred.
When should I use in retrospect instead of after the fact?
Use in retrospect when you are sharing your own later thoughts; after the fact is more neutral and can describe any later observation.
Is in retrospect appropriate in academic writing?
It is acceptable in academic writing, especially when discussing how earlier conclusions are viewed now.
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