Paranormal: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is used when talking about phenomena that cannot be explained by science and are often associated with ghosts or supernatural activity.

• They investigated the haunted house for paranormal activity.
• The film tells a story of a family experiencing paranormal events.

This term is used for things that are beyond the natural world and cannot be explained by natural laws. It is often associated with fantasy and horror genres.

• The novel is full of supernatural creatures like vampires and werewolves.
• He claimed to have supernatural powers that allowed him to see the future.

This word describes something that cannot be easily explained or understood, and is often used in scientific or everyday contexts.

• The scientists encountered unexplainable phenomena during their research.
• Her disappearance remains an unexplainable mystery.

Use this word when describing something that is difficult to understand or explain, often evoking curiosity or intrigue. It is a broader term than 'paranormal'.

• The old castle had a mysterious aura about it.
• Her past is quite mysterious, and no one knows much about it.

Use this word to describe phenomena that are beyond scientific explanation, typically associated with ghosts, telepathy, or unexplained mysteries.

• The old house was rumored to have paranormal activity.
• Scientists were unable to explain the paranormal events witnessed by the villagers.

This term is often used for secret or hidden knowledge that is related to the supernatural, often involving magic, witchcraft, or arcane rituals. It can have a negative or ominous connotation.

• He was fascinated by the occult and collected ancient spell books.
• The small town was wary of the occult practices rumored to be happening in the abandoned mansion.

This word is best suited for describing things related to magic, spirituality, or things that have a deep, mysterious, and often religious significance.

• The forest had a mystical aura that captivated everyone.
• She had a mystical experience during her meditation retreat.

This word describes things that seem alien, fantastical, or not of this world. It can be used positively to describe something awe-inspiring or enchanting, or negatively to describe something eerie and unsettling.

• The landscape had an otherworldly beauty that left them breathless.
• Her eyes had an otherworldly glow that made everyone uneasy.

Used to describe phenomena or events that cannot be explained by scientific understanding. It is often used in a general sense to cover various mysterious occurrences.

• The paranormal activity in the old house scared everyone.
• People often attribute ghost sightings to paranormal events.

Refers to the study or practice of magic, the supernatural, and mystical arts. It usually denotes secretive or esoteric knowledge and practices.

• She has been studying occultism for years and claims to have mystical powers.
• Occultism often involves rituals and ceremonies that are hidden from the public.

A branch of psychology that studies mental phenomena which are excluded from or inexplicable by orthodox scientific psychology, such as telepathy, clairvoyance, and psychokinesis.

• The university offers a course in parapsychology, focusing on topics like telepathy and ESP.
• Parapsychology is often criticized for lacking empirical support.

Describes events or occurrences that are beyond or above the laws of nature. This phrase is typically used in a more formal or academic context.

• Scientists remain skeptical about supernatural phenomena due to the lack of empirical evidence.
• The documentary explores various supernatural phenomena reported around the world.