Paranormally Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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paranormally
[หpรฆr.ษหnษหr.mษ.li ]
Definition
in supernatural or unexplained circumstances
In a way that relates to phenomena that cannot be scientifically explained or understood.
Synonyms
mysteriously, supernaturally, unexplainably.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| paranormally |
This word is used when talking about phenomena that are beyond scientific understanding and usually involve psychic abilities or ghostly occurrences.
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| supernaturally |
This is used to describe occurrences or beings that defy the natural laws of the universe, often related to myths, legends, and magical beliefs.
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| unexplainably |
This term is used when something cannot be explained by current knowledge or logic, often creating a sense of wonder or confusion.
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| mysteriously |
This word is often used in everyday conversation and literature to describe something that is difficult to explain or understand, often creating a sense of curiosity or suspense.
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Examples of usage
- She claimed to have communicated with spirits paranormally.
- The house was said to be haunted, with strange things happening paranormally.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
History
- The late 19th century saw the birth of Spiritualism, a movement that significantly popularized the belief in paranormal activities like communication with spirits.
- In the 20th century, numerous investigations into ghost hauntings were conducted, leading to the establishment of organizations like the Ghost Club, founded in 1862 in London.
- Famous incidents, like the 1940s 'Ghost Army' in WWII, showcased how reports of apparitions and eerie sounds have influenced cultures and beliefs.
Pop Culture
- Movies like 'Ghostbusters' and 'The Sixth Sense' have made paranormal themes mainstream, thrilling audiences while exploring fears of the unknown.
- Television shows like 'Paranormal Witness' and 'Ghost Hunters' showcase real-life investigations into reported paranormal activities, captivating millions.
- Books such as 'The Haunting of Hill House' by Shirley Jackson provide a cultural window into societal fears and fascinations with the paranormal.
Science
- Researchers in fields like parapsychology study phenomena such as telepathy and clairvoyance, seeking scientific evidence for endless human curiosity.
- Some scientists argue that events labeled 'paranormal' could have psychological or physical explanations that are not fully understood yet.
- The term 'anomalistic psychology' refers to the study of experiences that challenge scientific laws, shedding light on human belief systems.
Psychology
- Studies suggest that belief in paranormal phenomena can provide comfort to people dealing with loss or uncertainty, acting as a coping mechanism.
- Cognitive biases, such as confirmation bias, can lead individuals to interpret ambiguous stimuli as paranormal events, reinforcing their beliefs.
- Fear of the unknown can drive fascination with the paranormal; many find thrill or excitement in stories of the supernatural.
Origin of 'paranormally'
Main points about word origin
- The prefix 'para-' comes from Greek, meaning 'beside' or 'beyond', which sets the stage for things that exist outside normal experiences.
- The word 'normal' comes from the Latin 'norma', meaning a carpenter's squareโa standard for measurements, contrasting with the unusual.
- The combination of 'paranormal' emerged in the 20th century, showing a growing interest in unexplained phenomena.
The word 'paranormally' is derived from the combination of 'para-' meaning beyond or beside, and 'normal' meaning usual or typical. It is often used to describe events or phenomena that are beyond the scope of normal scientific understanding or explanation, such as ghosts, psychic abilities, or supernatural occurrences.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #43,018, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.