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Delusions Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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delusions

[dɪˈluːʒənz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

mental health

Delusions are false beliefs that are firmly held despite evidence to the contrary. They are often a symptom of psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.

Synonyms

false beliefs, illusions, misconceptions.

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Word Description / Examples
delusions

This term is often used in a psychological or medical context to describe strong beliefs or impressions that a person holds despite clear evidence to the contrary. It usually has a negative connotation and is used when these beliefs significantly impair the individual's reality perception.

  • The patient was experiencing delusions and believed he was a famous celebrity.
  • Her delusions of grandeur made it difficult for her to maintain normal social relationships.
false beliefs

This phrase is more general and can be used in a variety of contexts, including everyday situations, to describe incorrect or untrue beliefs that people hold. It is less formal than 'delusions' and does not necessarily imply a medical condition.

  • Many people have false beliefs about the effectiveness of certain home remedies.
  • He was under the false belief that he could easily win the chess tournament without practicing.
illusions

Illusions refer to deceptive appearances or false perceptions, often in the context of sensory experiences. This term is commonly used in art, magic, or discussions about how our senses can be tricked.

  • The magician created an impressive illusion that made the card disappear.
  • Optical illusions demonstrate how our eyes and brain can sometimes deceive us.
misconceptions

This term is best used to describe incorrect understandings or interpretations of information. It is commonly used in educational and informational contexts.

  • One common misconception is that humans only use 10% of their brains.
  • There are many misconceptions about how vaccines work.

Examples of usage

  • He was convinced that he was a famous celebrity, despite having no evidence to support this belief.
  • She believed that the government was spying on her through her toaster, a classic example of delusion.
  • The patient's delusions of grandeur made it difficult for him to maintain relationships.
  • Delusions can be dangerous if they lead individuals to act erratically or harm themselves or others.
  • Treatment for delusions often involves a combination of therapy and medication.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Certain mental health disorders, like schizophrenia, frequently involve delusions, leading individuals to hold onto false beliefs despite evidence to the contrary.
  • Delusions can be categorized into types, such as paranoid delusions, where a person believes others are plotting against them, or grandiose delusions, believing they have extraordinary abilities or fame.

History

  • Throughout history, various cultures have identified and documented delusions, recognizing them as a phenomenon affected by social and environmental factors.
  • The term 'delusion' dates back to the 14th century, derived from the Latin 'deludere', meaning 'to mock or deceive'.

Pop Culture

  • Delusions often feature in movies and literature, portraying characters who experience fictional realities, emphasizing the tension between belief and reality.
  • Famous works, like 'A Beautiful Mind', illustrate the struggles of individuals living with delusions, raising awareness about mental health.

Science

  • Neuroscience has shown that delusions may arise from misinterpretations of stimuli in the brain, indicating a disconnect between perception and reality.
  • Research indicates that certain substances, like psychedelics, can induce temporary delusions, providing insights into the nature of belief and perception.

Literature

  • Delusions often serve as a central theme in literary works, symbolizing the human struggle with facing uncomfortable truths.
  • Authors like George Orwell in '1984' explore the concept of delusions as a form of psychological control, demonstrating how perceptions can be manipulated by society.

Origin of 'delusions'

The word 'delusion' comes from the Latin word 'delusio', which means 'deceiving'. The concept of delusions has been documented throughout history, with references in ancient Greek and Roman texts. In the field of psychology, delusions have been studied extensively as a symptom of various mental health disorders.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,590, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.