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reckoning

noun

/ˈrɛk ə nɪŋ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of reckoning

A decisive moment or a time of judgment and evaluation, where one's actions, decisions, or behavior are confronted and assessed.
"The team's failure in the championship was a reckoning that prompted them to reevaluate their training methods."

Detailed meaning of reckoning

It represents a critical point where the consequences of past choices or events come to light and demand attention. In this context, a reckoning often entails facing the truth, accepting responsibility, and experiencing the repercussions of one's actions. It can involve introspection, self-reflection, and the need to make amends or seek redemption. A reckoning can be personal, affecting an individual's life or conscience, or it can extend to a broader societal or collective level, where the consequences of collective actions or historical events are confronted and addressed. Ultimately, a reckoning serves as an opportunity for growth, transformation, and a renewed understanding of oneself and one's place in the world.

Example sentences containing reckoning

1. The reckoning for his reckless behavior finally arrived, as he faced the consequences of his actions.
2. The company's financial reckoning forced them to lay off several employees and reevaluate their business strategies.
3. After years of denying his mistakes, he had a moment of reckoning and admitted his faults.
4. The country underwent a painful reckoning with its dark history, confronting the atrocities committed in the past.
5. She knew that her reckoning with the truth was inevitable, even though it terrified her.
6. The reckoning in the courtroom revealed the true extent of the defendant's crimes.

History and etymology of reckoning

The noun 'reckoning' has its etymological roots in Middle English, where it was used as 'reknyng.' It can be traced back to the Old English word 'reccan,' which means 'to recount' or 'to narrate.' Over time, its meaning evolved to encompass the idea of calculation, assessment, or judgment. The term 'reckoning' now refers to a decisive moment or a time of judgment and evaluation, where one's actions, decisions, or behavior are confronted and assessed. Its etymology underscores the concept of recounting or evaluating one's deeds and decisions, making it a fitting term to describe a critical juncture where one's past choices come to bear on the present.

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Further usage examples of reckoning

1. He felt a sense of reckoning as he stood on the edge of a new chapter in his life.
2. The novel explores the protagonist's reckoning with his own identity and purpose.
3. The family reunion became a reckoning as long-held secrets were revealed.
4. The political party faced a reckoning in the upcoming elections, where voters would judge their performance.
5. The reckoning for her betrayal came when her closest friends turned their backs on her.
6. The artist's reckoning with his past influenced the themes and emotions conveyed in his artwork.
7. The community's reckoning with inequality and injustice led to a movement for social change.
8. The reckoning for his reckless behavior is long overdue.
9. At the reckoning, her choices will be scrutinized closely.
10. The company faces a financial reckoning after years of losses.
11. In politics, a reckoning often comes at the ballot box.
12. The reckoning with her past haunted her every day.
13. After years of procrastination, the reckoning was unavoidable.
14. His arrogance led to a reckoning with his colleagues.
15. The criminal finally faced a reckoning in the courtroom.
16. At the reckoning, his true character was revealed.
17. The reckoning for their betrayal was swift and harsh.
18. The business had a reckoning with its unethical practices.
19. She awaited the reckoning for her controversial art.
20. The reckoning of their actions left them filled with regret.
21. The nation was at a reckoning point in its history.
22. The reckoning of the past haunted her every decision.
23. A reckoning of her accomplishments showed true success.
24. The reckoning after the scandal was inevitable.
25. At the reckoning, her dedication was unquestionable.
26. The reckoning in the courtroom brought justice at last.