What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hallucination
Example
He experienced hallucinations after taking the drug. [hallucinations: noun]
Example
She thought she saw a ghost, but it was just a hallucination. [hallucination: noun]
mirage
Example
The travelers were fooled by the mirage of an oasis in the desert. [mirage: noun]
Example
The heat made the road look like it was wet, but it was just a mirage. [mirage: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mirage is more commonly used than hallucination in everyday language. Mirage is a well-known term that is often used in literature and popular culture, while hallucination is a more technical term that is primarily used in medical or psychological contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hallucination and mirage?
Hallucination is a more formal term than mirage. It is often used in medical or psychological contexts and may not be familiar to everyone. Mirage, on the other hand, is a more versatile term that can be used in both formal and informal contexts.