B2noun2K

Illusion

UK /["/ɪˈluːʒn/"]/US /["/ɪˈluːʒn/"]/

Definition

a false idea or belief, especially about somebody or about a situation

In simple words: A misleading image or idea that seems real but isn't.

Examples

  • The magician created the illusion of a dove appearing from thin air.
  • The desert heat caused an illusion of water on the road.
  • She lived under the illusion that her favorite band would visit her hometown.
  • The funhouse mirrors produce strange illusions that distort a person's reflection.
  • Economic prosperity turned out to be an illusion rather than a lasting reality.

Usage notes

Use 'illusion' when discussing perceptions and appearances, especially in art or magic. Avoid using it in formal or scientific contexts without clarification.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'I lose in' — when you lose, it might just be an illusion of losing.

Collocations

  • dangerous
  • optical
  • visual
  • be under
  • entertain
  • have
  • illusion about
  • illusion as to
  • be all an illusion
  • dangerous
  • optical
  • visual
  • be under
  • entertain
  • have
  • illusion about
  • illusion as to
  • be all an illusion

Synonyms

  • deception
  • mirage
  • fantasy
  • hallucination
  • figment

Antonyms

  • reality
  • truth

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'delusion' which refers to a false belief.
  • Using as a verb, while it is only a noun.
  • Mispronouncing it as 'ill-oo-zhun' instead of 'i-loo-zhun'.