the way someone sees or thinks about things

perspective

noun|/pərˈspɛk.tɪv/

A particular way of viewing or thinking about something

Examples

In a meeting

From a customer perspective, this feature is essential.

Over coffee

From my perspective, the movie was too long.

Why this word

viewpoint

perspective suggests a comprehensive framework shaped by experience, while viewpoint is a simpler position on an issue

opinion

perspective implies a structured way of understanding, while opinion is just a personal belief without systematic basis

view

perspective encompasses context and interpretive framework, while view is a general term for how one sees something

Usage tip

Use to acknowledge different viewpoints or frame discussions from specific angles

Etymology

Latin 'perspectivus' (optical) from 'perspicere' (see through) from 'per-' (through) + 'specere' (look)

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