in hindsight
in retrospect; looking back with the knowledge we have now
In Spanish
in retrospect; looking back with the knowledge we have now
Examples
- In hindsight, accepting that offer was the right call.
- In hindsight, moving to the city was a life-changing decision.
- In hindsight, I should have studied more for that exam.
When it's used
This phrase is used both formally and informally, in speech and writing. It's common when reflecting on past decisions with the benefit of additional knowledge.
The common mistake
A common error is to calque the Spanish phrase as 'in posterior view'. This is not English and does not convey the intended meaning of reflecting on past actions.
Related idioms
FROM WHAT YOU READ TO WHAT YOU SAY
Recognising it isn't the same as using it
Reading an idiom and understanding it is step one. Dropping it into a conversation, at the right moment, without stopping to think, is another — and that only comes from speaking.
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