What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
esp
Example
Some people believe in the existence of ESP, which allows them to sense things beyond the five senses. [ESP: noun]
Example
She claimed to have ESP and could predict future events. [ESP: abbreviation]
telepathy
Example
They had a telepathic connection and could communicate without speaking. [telepathy: noun]
Example
He tried to use telepathy to guess what she was thinking. [telepathy: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
ESP is more commonly used than telepathy in everyday language, as it is a broader term that covers a wider range of beliefs and practices.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between esp and telepathy?
Both ESP and telepathy are associated with paranormal or supernatural beliefs and are typically used in informal contexts.