Definition

Noun: A deep and honest examination of one's own thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and motivations, often undertaken during a period of doubt or when facing a difficult decision.

Usage

This word is used as a singular, uncountable noun. It describes the process or activity of introspection. - It is often preceded by verbs like do, engage in, or undertake. - It can be modified by adjectives like deep, honest, painful, or much-needed.

Examples

• After losing the election, the candidate began a period of soul-searching to understand what went wrong.
• Her career change was preceded by months of intense soul-searching.
• The scandal forced the organization into some serious soul-searching about its ethical standards.

Advanced Usage

• "A bout of soul-searching": A specific, often intense, period of self-examination.
  • His failure prompted a long bout of soul-searching.
• "Soul-searching question": A question that prompts deep introspection.
  • "What is my true purpose?" is a soul-searching question.

Variants and Related Words

• Introspection (n): The examination of one's own mental and emotional processes. (More formal and clinical than ).
• Self-reflection (n): Serious thought about one's character and actions. (Similar in meaning but can be less intense).
• Soul-searcher (n): A person who engages in soul-searching. (Less common).

Synonyms

• Soul-searching is the most specific term. Near synonyms include:
  • Introspection
  • Self-examination
  • Heart-searching (chiefly British English)

Related Phrases

• Search one's soul: The verb phrase from which the noun is derived.
  • He spent the night searching his soul for an answer.
• Look within: A simpler phrase meaning to examine one's own feelings.
  • You need to look within to find the truth.

Related Idioms

• Examine one's conscience: To think honestly about whether one's actions are right or wrong. (Has a stronger moral or ethical dimension than ).
  • The judge advised the jury to examine their consciences before reaching a verdict.

Noun

1. a penetrating examination of your own beliefs and motives