反映 fǎnyìng to mirror
to mirror; to reflect; mirror image; reflection; (figuratively) to report; to make known; to render
How to remember 反映: 反 oppose + 映 to project = to mirror.
Characters
How it is used
- Mostly used figuratively for relaying information up the chain: 反映情况 (fǎnyìng qíngkuàng) - report a situation (to a boss, official, or committee).
- Also means to reflect reality: 这部小说反映了社会现实 (zhè bù xiǎoshuō fǎnyìngle shèhuì xiànshí) - this novel reflects social reality.
- Same pinyin as 反应 but a different job: 映 carries the sun radical (light/reflection), so think mirror/report, not react.
- Written/formal register - common in news, complaints to authorities, and essays.