introspective
Meaning: Inclined to examine one's own thoughts, feelings, and motivations; given to self-reflection.
Introspective describes people who habitually look inward and analyse their own mental and emotional states. It is used in psychology, literary criticism, and everyday character description. 'Introspective' writing or music is contemplative and self-examining in tone. The noun form is 'introspection.' While generally neutral, the word can sometimes carry a faint suggestion of being overly self-absorbed or withdrawn.
Examples
- His later novels became increasingly introspective, exploring themes of memory and regret. 他后期的小说越来越具有内省色彩,探索记忆与悔恨的主题。Sus novelas tardías se volvieron cada vez más introspectivas y exploraron temas de memoria y arrepentimiento.彼の後期の小説はますます内省的になり、記憶と後悔のテーマを探求した。그의 후기 소설들은 점점 더 내성적이 되어, 기억과 후회라는 주제를 탐구했다.
- She was a quiet, introspective child who preferred reading to playing with her classmates. 她是一个安静、内省的孩子,比起和同学一起玩耍,更喜欢读书。Era una niña callada e introspectiva que prefería la lectura a jugar con sus compañeros.彼女は静かで内省的な子どもで、クラスメートと遊ぶよりも読書を好んだ。그녀는 급우들과 노는 것보다 독서를 좋아하는 조용하고 내성적인 아이였다.
- The retreat encouraged participants to adopt a more introspective approach to their daily lives. 那次静修鼓励参与者在日常生活中采取更加内省的态度。El retiro animó a los participantes a adoptar un enfoque más introspectivo en su vida diaria.そのリトリートは、参加者に日常生活においてより内省的なアプローチを取るよう促した。그 수련회는 참가자들이 일상생활에서 보다 내성적인 접근 방식을 취하도록 독려했다.
Pronunciation
Usage Guide
Context: literary, academic, general
Tone: neutral
Origin & History
From Latin introspectus, past participle of introspicere (to look within), from intro- (inward) + specere (to look). The psychological sense was formalised by philosophers like John Locke in the 17th century.
Cultural Context
Era: Modern
Generation: All ages
Social background: Universal
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