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Delusion Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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delusion

[dɪˈluːʒ(ə)n ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

mental health

A delusion is a belief that is clearly false and that indicates an abnormality in the affected person's content of thought.

Synonyms

fantasy, hallucination, illusion.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
delusion

Used when someone firmly believes in something that is false, especially in a way that is irrational or not based on reality. Often associated with mental health issues.

  • She suffered from the delusion that she was being watched.
  • Despite all evidence to the contrary, he maintained his delusion of grandeur.
hallucination

Refers to perceiving things that are not there, typically as a result of illness or drug use. This word has a medical connotation.

  • After taking the medication, he started to experience hallucinations of brightly colored animals.
  • The patient reported hearing voices that no one else could hear, suggesting auditory hallucinations.
illusion

Used when something deceives the senses or presents a false appearance. This can involve optical tricks or misleading situations.

  • The magician's act created the illusion of sawing his assistant in half.
  • The road looked wet due to the heat, but it was just an illusion.
fantasy

Used when describing imaginative thoughts or dreams that are not real. Often connected with creative ideas or daydreams.

  • He has a fantasy of becoming a famous rock star.
  • The book is set in a rich fantasy world filled with magic and mythical creatures.

Examples of usage

  • He is currently experiencing delusions of persecution.
  • She has delusions of grandeur.
Context #2 | Noun

general

A delusion can also refer to a persistent false belief held in the face of strong contradictory evidence, especially as a symptom of psychiatric disorder.

Synonyms

error, fallacy, misconception.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
delusion

A delusion is a strongly held belief that is not true or grounded in reality, often associated with mental health issues.

  • 'He has a delusion that he is being followed by secret agents
  • '
misconception

A misconception is an incorrect understanding or interpretation of a fact or concept, often due to misinformation or lack of knowledge.

  • 'There is a common misconception that lightning never strikes the same place twice
  • '
fallacy

A fallacy is a mistaken belief or flawed argument based on unsound reasoning, often in logical or philosophical contexts.

  • 'The argument that vaccines cause autism is a common fallacy
  • '
error

An error is a mistake or incorrect decision, often used in contexts where a wrong action or thought has occurred.

  • 'The report contained several errors that needed correction
  • '

Examples of usage

  • His delusion that he was a famous celebrity was shattered when no one recognized him.
  • The patient's delusions were a barrier to seeking treatment.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Delusions are often seen in mental health conditions, like schizophrenia, where people might believe they are being persecuted.
  • They can vary greatly, from simple misunderstandings to complex beliefs about reality, often challenging to treat.
  • Understanding delusions helps us learn about the brain and how it processes information, influencing our perception of reality.

Pop Culture

  • Delusion is a common theme in literature and film, often portrayed in characters who struggle with their perceptions, like in 'Fight Club.'
  • Many songs explore the idea of delusion, reflecting on love and life’s illusions, providing a relatable cultural commentary.
  • Reality TV shows sometimes play on the concept, where contestants may develop delusions about their fame and success.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers have debated the nature of reality and what constitutes a delusion, questioning the boundary between belief and truth.
  • The concept often ties into discussions about human perception and the subjective nature of experience, highlighting how we might be misled by our senses.
  • Famous philosophers like Descartes pondered delusions in the context of doubt, prompting individuals to question what they truly know.

Science

  • Research into the neurological basis of delusions suggests connections to specific brain areas, emphasizing the importance of brain chemistry.
  • Studies found that delusions might arise due to misinterpretation of sensory input, showing how the brain constructs our reality.
  • Advances in neuroscience are uncovering how treatments can help to realign thoughts and perceptions in individuals experiencing delusions.

Origin of 'delusion'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'deludere,' meaning 'to deceive,' combining 'de-' (down) and 'ludere' (to play).
  • Initially used in the 14th century, its usage in a psychological context developed in the late 19th century.
  • Its evolution showcases the shift from literal interpretation to a more abstract understanding of mental states.

The word 'delusion' comes from the Latin word 'delusio', which means 'a deceiving'. The concept of delusions has been present throughout history, with references in ancient texts and medical documents. The understanding and classification of delusions have evolved over time, leading to the modern psychiatric definition used today.

See also: delude, deluded, delusional.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,261, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.