What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
delusion
Example
He was under the delusion that he could fly. [delusion: noun]
Example
She deluded herself into thinking that he loved her. [deluded: verb]
hallucination
Example
He had a hallucination of a giant spider crawling on his arm. [hallucination: noun]
Example
She was hallucinating due to the fever and saw strange creatures in the room. [hallucinating: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Delusion and hallucination are both technical terms used in psychology and psychiatry. However, delusion is more commonly used in everyday language to refer to a false belief or idea, while hallucination is less common and often associated with mental illness.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between delusion and hallucination?
Delusion and hallucination are both formal words that are typically used in technical or medical contexts. They are not commonly used in casual or informal conversations.