Meaning & use
sober reflection
Last updated
UK/ˌsəʊbə rɪˈflekʃn/
US/ˌsoʊbər rɪˈflekʃn/
Meaning
phraseuncountable
Serious, calm thinking about something, especially after an exciting or emotional time.
Grammar: Used as an uncountable noun phrase; it often follows 'after' or 'on'.
Patterns
- after sober reflection
- on sober reflection
- sober reflection on something
After sober reflection, she decided not to accept the job offer.
The committee's decision came after sober reflection on the risks involved.
Common combinations
- after sober reflection
- After sober reflection, he apologized for his outburst.
- on sober reflection
- On sober reflection, the plan seemed too risky.
- sober reflection on
- The book offers a sober reflection on the war.
- a moment of sober reflection
- The ceremony included a moment of sober reflection.
Synonyms and how they differ
- calm consideration
- Similar but more neutral; 'sober reflection' often implies a contrast with earlier excitement or emotion.
- serious thought
- Broader; 'sober reflection' suggests a more formal or public context.
Practice
Which sentence uses 'sober reflection' correctly?
Choose one answer.
'Sober reflection' is a fixed phrase meaning serious thinking, often after excitement. Option 0 uses it naturally. The others break the phrase or use it incorrectly.
Make it your own
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