What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
psychic
Example
The psychic predicted that I would meet someone special within the year. [psychic: noun]
Example
She had a psychic feeling that something bad was going to happen. [psychic: adjective]
medium
Example
The medium claimed to have spoken to my deceased grandmother during the seance. [medium: noun]
Example
The artist used oil paint as a medium for his masterpiece. [medium: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Medium is more commonly used than psychic in everyday language. Medium has a broader range of meanings and applications, making it a more versatile word. Psychic is less common and is typically associated with belief in the supernatural.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between psychic and medium?
Both psychic and medium can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, psychic may be perceived as more informal due to its association with mysticism and the supernatural.