delusion - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
delusion Word Meanings
- a false belief despite evidence
- a state of being deceived
- a persistent misconception
delusion Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
delusion Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dɪˈluː.ʒən/
US
/dɪˈluː.ʒən/
delusion Word Etymology
de- = away + ludere = play/false; Latin → Old French → English. Imagine seeing an illusionary image far away, where what’s real isn’t clear, as if watching a mirage on a hot day.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Delusion is a belief that persists despite clear evidence to the contrary. In psychology and everyday speech it describes a false conviction about reality, such as thinking you are being watched or clinging to a theory that contradicts well-established facts. The term carries a nuance of deception or misperception that can arise from personal biases, emotions, or misleading information. It can range from mild mistaken beliefs to more severe fixed ideas that resist correction. In moral or religious contexts it may also refer to a self-serving misinterpretation that guides actions.
Usage Reminders
- Identify beliefs that persist after evidence; compare delusion with ordinary mistakes; note difference from illusions or hallucinations; consider emotional influence; use neutral clinical language.
Common Misconceptions
- Delusion = madness or insanity; not always
- All delusions are dramatic and easily noticed
- Delusions are only about others, not oneself
- A belief must be true if someone strongly argues it
- Delusion always requires a clinical diagnosis
Thinking Differences
In English, delusion often leans toward clinical or literary senses: a stubborn belief resistant to evidence, sometimes tied to mental health. Learners may conflate it with illusion or misunderstanding, so emphasize the persistence and resistance to correction rather than mere error.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations: delusion of grandeur, persecution delusion, delusional belief
- Differentiate delusion from illusion and ordinary bias
- Practice with clinical vs everyday usage
- Note adjective forms: delusional
- Be mindful of stigma; use respectful language
- Compare with related terms: misconception, bias, hallucination
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does 'delusion' mean?
A.Factual
B.Misunderstanding
C.Confusion
D.Truth
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'delusion' correctly?
A.His delusion about winning the lottery was true.
B.She had a delusion that the sun rises in the west.
C.The delusion of eating ice cream in a blizzard made her smile.
D.Their delusion celebration was a success.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'delusion'?
A.Fact
B.Truth
C.Fantasy
D.Imagination
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'delusion'?
A.Dream
B.Reality
C.Illusion
D.Hallucination
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context?
A.She believed she could fly without wings.
B.He thought the tree was talking to him.
C.She had a firm grasp on reality.
D.He was convinced his cat could speak multiple languages.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
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