English vocabulary · C1
Retrospect
/ˈrɛtrəˌspɛkt/ · n.
In retrospect, you look back at a past choice after you know what happened. You may then see that choice in a new way.
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Example sentences
- In retrospect, the warning was clear.
- The choice seemed foolish in retrospect.
Word origin and roots
from Latin
- retro — backward (from Latin)
- spect — see (from Latin)
Synonyms and nuances
- HINDSIGHT — understanding later (Clear Afterward)
- REFLECTION — thinking about the past (Careful Looking Back)
- REVIEW — look over once more (Examine Again)
Words with the same root
spect — see
- inspect — look at closely
- respect — value and honor
- prospect — a future possibility
Lesson notes
In retrospect, you look back at a past choice after you know what happened. You may then see that choice in a new way.
Related: hindsight, reflection, review. Use retrospect when new facts change the past.
In retrospect, the warning was clear. The choice seemed foolish in retrospect.
From Latin. Retro- means backward. Spect- means see. Look backward after events; that is retrospect.