Illusion

Definition

A deceptive appearance or perception; something not as it seems.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈluʒən/
• Respelling: ih-LOO-zhuhn (with "ih" as in "tin," "LOO" as in "loo," "zh" as in "measure," and "uhn" as in "button")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈluːʒən/
• Respelling: ih-LOO-zhuhn (with "ih" as in "tin," "LOO" as in "loo," "zh" as in "measure," and "uhn" as in "button")

In both dialects, "illusion" places the primary stress on the second syllable, "LOO." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "ih-LOO-zhuhn."

Etymology

The word "illusion" comes from the Latin word "illūsiōn", from "illūdō", which means "to mock, play with". This is a combination of "in" (against) and "lūdō" (to play).

Derivatives

• Illusory (adjective)
• Illusionary (adjective)
• Illusionist (noun)
• Illusive (adjective)
• Illusiveness (noun)

Synonyms

• Mirage
• Hallucination
• Delusion

Antonyms

• Reality
• Certainty
• Fact

Usage

The term "illusion" is commonly used to describe a perceptual distortion that can occur in various forms, such as visual, auditory, or tactile illusions. It is also used metaphorically to describe a false or misleading belief or perception.

Related Terms

• Magic
• Mirage
• Deception
• Apparition
• Fantasy

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Perceptual Illusion: A misleading or deceptive appearance, often caused by the senses perceiving something in a way that differs from reality.
  • Example: The magician created the illusion of a floating ball.

• False Belief: A mistaken or unfounded idea or belief.
  • Example: He was under the illusion that he could win the lottery without buying a ticket.

Note: "Illusion" is often used in contexts where there is a discrepancy between perception and reality. It can be a result of natural phenomena, intentional deception, or a cognitive misinterpretation.