Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

benefit-of-hindsight

Phrase

/ˈbɛnɪfɪt əv ˈhaɪndsaɪt/

Definition

The ability to understand a situation or event only after it has happened, typically leading to a greater understanding or a realization of what should have been done differently.

Examples

In hindsight, we should have invested in technology earlier.
The benefit of hindsight showed us that we could have avoided those mistakes.

Meaning

The term refers to the clarity gained after an event has occurred, allowing a person to see the pros and cons of decisions with the advantage of knowing the outcomes.