Surreal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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surreal
[sษหriหษl ]
Definitions
art
characterized by the elements of surprise, unexpected juxtapositions, and non sequitur; surreal art often challenges the viewer's perception of reality
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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surreal |
Typically describes something that is bizarre or fantastical, often provoking a sense of wonder or confusion. It's often used in artistic or cinematic contexts.
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dreamlike |
Used to describe something that feels soft, hazy, or ethereal, similar to the experience of being in a dream. Suitable for describing experiences that are pleasant, elusive, or ephemeral.
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fantastic |
Commonly used to describe something extraordinary or wonderful, often with a sense of excitement. Can be used in both positive and imaginative contexts.
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unreal |
Often used to describe something astonishing or incredible, typically in a positive way, though it can sometimes imply disbelief or skepticism.
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Examples of usage
- The surreal paintings of Salvador Dali are famous for their dreamlike imagery.
- Her artwork has a surreal quality that transports the viewer to another world.
experience
having the quality of a dream; bizarre or unreal
Synonyms
fantastical, otherworldly, unbelievable.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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surreal |
Used to describe something that feels dreamlike or very strange, often because it combines elements that don't usually go together.
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otherworldly |
Used to describe something that seems to come from another world, often giving a sense of wonder or mystery.
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unbelievable |
Used to describe something that is so extraordinary it is hard to believe it is true, often implying skepticism.
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fantastical |
Used for things that are imaginative and not based in reality, often related to fantasy or fairy tales.
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Examples of usage
- It was a surreal experience walking through the deserted city streets at night.
- The whole situation felt surreal, like something out of a movie.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Art & Literature
- Surrealism in art often features unusual juxtapositions, like a melting clock draped over a tree, challenging the viewer's perceptions.
- Famous artists like Salvador Dalรญ and Renรฉ Magritte created iconic works that embody surreal elements, such as dreamlike landscapes and bizarre imagery.
Psychology
- Surreal experiences can occur during vivid dreams or hallucinations, blurring the line between reality and imagination.
- The concept of the unconscious has been explored in psychology, suggesting that surreal imagery can reveal deeper thoughts and feelings.
Pop Culture
- Surreal themes are prevalent in films like 'Inception' and 'Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind,' which play with dream logic and alternate realities.
- Music videos, especially in genres like psychedelic rock, often incorporate surreal visuals to enhance the emotional experience of the song.
Philosophy
- Philosophers have debated the nature of reality, with some suggesting that what we perceive can often be more bizarre than we realize.
- The idea that life can sometimes feel 'surreal' reflects a deeper inquiry into human existence and our understanding of what is real.
Origin of 'surreal'
Main points about word origin
- The word combines 'sur-' meaning 'beyond' in French, and 'real,' suggesting something that goes beyond reality.
- It was popularized in the early 20th century by the Surrealist movement in art and literature, which aimed to express the unconscious mind.
The term 'surreal' originates from the French word 'surrรฉaliste', which was coined by the poet Guillaume Apollinaire in 1917. The Surrealist movement in art and literature emerged in the 1920s, led by artists like Salvador Dali and Renรฉ Magritte. Surrealism aimed to unlock the creative potential of the unconscious mind, often resulting in dreamlike, bizarre, and unexpected creations.
See also: real, realism, realistic, realistically, reality, realize, really, realtor, unreal, unrealised, unrealistic, unrealistically, unrealizable, unrealized, unrealness.
Word Frequency Rank
Positioned at #22,703, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.
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- 22700 debilitated
- 22701 assize
- 22702 uninterested
- 22703 surreal
- 22704 inchoate
- 22705 plainer
- 22706 cesarean
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