Phantasm: meaning, definitions and examples

Phantasm is generally used in literary or philosophical contexts to describe a figment of the imagination or an illusory perception. It often has a dreamy or unreal quality to it.

• The haunting phantasm of her past decisions followed her everywhere.
• In the depths of his despair, he could hardly separate phantasm from reality.

Apparition is commonly used to describe a ghostly figure that one unexpectedly sees. It is often used in spooky or supernatural contexts.

• She claimed to have seen an apparition in the old, abandoned house.
• The mysterious apparition scared all the guests at the seance.

Specter often has a more sinister or ominous connotation and can be used to describe a ghost or a looming fear or threat.

• The specter of war loomed over the entire region.
• He felt a cold shiver as the specter appeared in the hallway.

Spirit is a versatile term to refer to a supernatural being, ghost, or essence of a person. It can also have a positive connotation, referring to someone's inner qualities or vitality.

• Many believe in the guiding spirit of their ancestors.
• Her adventurous spirit couldn’t be constrained by the mundane routines of life.

Often used in literature or poetic contexts to refer to a ghost or specter, or a figment of the imagination.

• The old house was said to be haunted by a phantasm
• She dismissed the vision as merely a phantasm of her weary mind

Often used to describe imaginative scenarios or daydreams that are improbable or impossible. Commonly used in creative writing and to refer to a genre of fiction.

• She often escaped into a fantasy world of dragons and wizards
• His fantasy of becoming a rock star kept him motivated

Refers to a deceptive appearance or false perception of reality, often used in both everyday language and technical contexts like magic or optical phenomena.

• The magician created the illusion of levitation
• His sense of security was just an illusion

Used primarily in psychological or medical contexts to describe a false belief or perception, often associated with mental illness. It has a negative connotation.

• He was under the delusion that he could fly
• Her belief that she was invincible was a dangerous delusion