B1adjective3K

UK/["/ɪˈmædʒɪnəri/"]/US/["/ɪˈmædʒɪneri/"]/

Meaning of Imaginary

existing only in your mind or imagination

In simple words: Something that is not real and exists only in your mind.

Imaginary in a sentence

  • The equator is an imaginary line around the middle of the earth.
  • I had an imaginary friend when I was a child.
  • As children they invented the imaginary world of Gondal.
  • We must listen to their problems, real or imaginary.
  • a largely imaginary threat
  • The story is wholly imaginary.
  • Children experience a lot of imaginary fears at this age.

How to use Imaginary

Use 'imaginary' to describe things that are fictional or invented. It's suitable for both casual and formal contexts, but avoid it when discussing real-life situations.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Imagine a ghost that only you can see; it’s imaginary!

Related words

Collocations with Imaginary

Synonyms for Imaginary

  • fictional
  • fantastical
  • unreal
  • nonexistent
  • dreamlike

Opposites of Imaginary

Common mistakes with Imaginary

  • Confused with 'imaginative' — 'imaginary' refers to things that aren't real.
  • Using 'imaginary' in a context that requires something concrete or factual.
  • Confusing 'imaginary' with 'illusionary' — 'illusionary' suggests something deceptive.

Imaginary appears in

Imaginary in other languages

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Frequently asked questions about Imaginary

What does Imaginary mean?

Something that is not real and exists only in your mind.

What is the definition of Imaginary?

existing only in your mind or imagination

How do you use Imaginary in a sentence?

The equator is an imaginary line around the middle of the earth.

Can you give another example of Imaginary?

I had an imaginary friend when I was a child.

What are synonyms for Imaginary?

Common alternatives include fictional, fantastical, unreal, nonexistent, dreamlike.

What is the opposite of Imaginary?

Opposite meanings include real, actual, factual.

What words go with Imaginary?

It commonly pairs with be, completely, entirely, purely.

What are common mistakes when using Imaginary?

Confused with 'imaginative' — 'imaginary' refers to things that aren't real. Using 'imaginary' in a context that requires something concrete or factual. Confusing 'imaginary' with 'illusionary' — 'illusionary' suggests something deceptive.

How do you pronounce Imaginary?

US: /["/ɪˈmædʒɪneri/"]/, UK: /["/ɪˈmædʒɪnəri/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Imaginary?

Use 'imaginary' to describe things that are fictional or invented. It's suitable for both casual and formal contexts, but avoid it when discussing real-life situations.

What CEFR level is Imaginary?

"Imaginary" is at B1 level on the CEFR scale.