Fantasy: meaning, definitions and examples

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fantasy

[ˈfæntəsi ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

genre

The genre of imaginative fiction involving magic and adventure, especially in a setting other than the real world.

Synonyms

fiction, imagination, whimsy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
fantasy	Often used to describe a genre of literature or film that involves magical or supernatural elements, such as dragons or wizards. It emphasizes the creation of an entirely different, often magical world. The 'Lord of the Rings' trilogy is a classic example of fantasy literature. He loves reading fantasy novels that transport him to otherworldly realms.
imagination	Describes the ability to form new ideas, images, or concepts that are not present to the senses. Often used to discuss creativity and the mental process of creating new, original ideas. Children often have vivid imaginations and come up with the most interesting stories. Her imagination allows her to dream up innovative solutions to everyday problems.
fiction	Used to refer to literature that describes invented events, people, and places. It is a broad term that covers many genres, including science fiction, historical fiction, and more. She prefers reading fiction to non-fiction because she enjoys stories that spark her imagination. His debut novel is a work of fiction that blends mystery with romance.
whimsy	Refers to playful or fanciful ideas and behaviors, often involving a sense of fun and unpredictability. It has a light-hearted connotation. The garden was decorated with a sense of whimsy, featuring fairy lights and colorful sculptures. Her outfit had a touch of whimsy, with bright colors and playful patterns.

Examples of usage

In the world of fantasy, anything is possible.
She enjoys reading fantasy novels in her free time.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

daydream

A fanciful mental image, typically one on which a person dwells at length or repeatedly and which reflects their desires or anxieties.

Synonyms

daydream, fantasizing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
fantasy	Used to describe scenarios or worlds created by the imagination, often detached from reality. It can refer to literature, dreams, or aspirations that are very unlikely to happen. She loves reading fantasy novels about magical kingdoms. Winning the lottery is just a fantasy for most people.
daydream	Refers to a temporary escape from reality, usually happening while awake, where a person imagines pleasant or ideal scenarios. It often occurs during idle moments. He spent the afternoon daydreaming about his upcoming vacation. I caught myself in a daydream during the long meeting.
fantasizing	Describes the act of continuously imagining something, often something impossible or highly improbable. It can carry a slightly negative connotation if seen as an avoidance of real-life responsibilities. She was fantasizing about living in a mansion by the sea. Spending too much time fantasizing can prevent you from achieving real goals.

Word

Description / Examples

fantasy

Used to describe scenarios or worlds created by the imagination, often detached from reality. It can refer to literature, dreams, or aspirations that are very unlikely to happen.

She loves reading fantasy novels about magical kingdoms.
Winning the lottery is just a fantasy for most people.

daydream

Refers to a temporary escape from reality, usually happening while awake, where a person imagines pleasant or ideal scenarios. It often occurs during idle moments.

He spent the afternoon daydreaming about his upcoming vacation.
I caught myself in a daydream during the long meeting.

fantasizing

Describes the act of continuously imagining something, often something impossible or highly improbable. It can carry a slightly negative connotation if seen as an avoidance of real-life responsibilities.

She was fantasizing about living in a mansion by the sea.
Spending too much time fantasizing can prevent you from achieving real goals.

Examples of usage

Her fantasy of becoming a famous actress one day keeps her motivated.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The word 'fantasy' comes from the Greek word 'phantasia,' meaning 'appearance' or 'imagination.'
In ancient literature, tales of gods and mythical creatures often blended reality with imagination, laying early groundwork for modern fantasy.
The genre began to take shape in the 19th century with authors like George MacDonald, influencing future fantasy writers.

Pop Culture

The 'Lord of the Rings' series, created by J.R.R. Tolkien, is one of the most beloved fantasy works, inspiring countless adaptations in films and games.
Video games like 'Final Fantasy' and 'The Elder Scrolls' series showcase expansive worlds filled with lore, attracting fans of all ages.
Fantasy genre films, such as 'Harry Potter' and 'The Chronicles of Narnia,' have made fantasy a huge part of modern popular culture.

Psychology

Engaging with fantasy can help improve creativity and problem-solving skills by allowing one to explore different perspectives.
The act of daydreaming often involves elements of fantasy, providing a mental escape and stress relief.
Children who read fantasy books tend to develop better empathy by understanding diverse characters and worlds.

Literature

Fantasy literature often includes a 'hero's journey,' where the main character undergoes significant growth and adventure.
Classic works like 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland' showcase absurdity and whimsy, defining key elements of the genre.
Writers like Ursula K. Le Guin explore themes of identity and society through richly built fantasy worlds.

Art

Visual artists, like Brian Froud, are known for bringing fantasy creatures and worlds to life through intricate illustrations.
Fantasy art often incorporates vibrant colors and mythical creatures, capturing the imagination of collectors and enthusiasts alike.
The rise of digital art has led to new opportunities for artists to create and share their fantastical visions with global audiences.

Translations

Translations of the word "fantasy" in other languages:

🇵🇹 fantasia

🇮🇳 कल्पना

🇩🇪 Fantasie

🇮🇩 fantasi

🇺🇦 фантазія

уява
фентезі

🇵🇱 fantazja

🇯🇵 幻想 (げんそう)

🇫🇷 fantaisie

🇪🇸 fantasía

🇹🇷 fantezi

🇰🇷 환상 (幻想)

🇸🇦 خيال

🇨🇿 fantazie

🇸🇰 fantázia

🇨🇳 幻想 (huànxiǎng)

🇸🇮 fantazija

🇮🇸 fantasía

🇰🇿 фантазия

🇬🇪 ფანტაზია

🇦🇿 fantaziya

🇲🇽 fantasía

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,332 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

...
7329 sustaining
7330 humour
7331 token
7332 fantasy
7333 surety
7334 predecessors
7335 prototype
...