noun

perspective

per-SPEK-tiv/pərˈspektɪv/

A way of understanding something in relation to its context or importance.

The gardener's perspective makes the rain welcome, while the picnicker sees a spoiled outing.

Two people regard the same rainfall from different practical perspectives: a disappointed picnicker sees a spoiled outing, while a pleased gardener welcomes water for dry plants.

Etymology

perLatinthrough

+spectLatinlook at

+iveLatinpertaining to

The “look through” elements first belonged to the science of sight. From visual depth and proportion, perspective developed a mental sense: how the parts of a subject relate within someone's outlook.

In context

Curt Jaimungal6:09

It's just a very narrow perspective on the cosmos, and I like to try to open my eyes beyond that perspective. Thinking about the mysteries of physics and cosmology is a good way to do that.

The Physicist Who Proved Entropy = Gravity

More examples

Her years as a nurse give her a different perspective on illness.
From a historical perspective, the change seems less surprising.
A quiet walk helps me regain perspective after a stressful day.

Forms

perspective · perspectives

Similar words

viewpoint: Emphasizes a particular position rather than context or relative importance.
outlook: Usually describes a general attitude toward life or the future.