What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
subconscious
Example
She had a subconscious fear of heights that she wasn't aware of. [subconscious: adjective]
Example
He couldn't remember where he put his keys, but later found them thanks to his subconscious memory. [subconscious: noun]
subliminal
Example
The subliminal message in the advertisement was designed to make people crave junk food. [subliminal: adjective]
Example
The artist used subliminal imagery in the painting to convey a deeper meaning. [subliminal: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Subconscious is a more common word than subliminal in everyday language, as it is a natural part of the mind's functioning and has been extensively studied in psychology and neuroscience. Subliminal, on the other hand, is a more specialized term that is often associated with advertising and media.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between subconscious and subliminal?
Both subconscious and subliminal can be used in formal and informal contexts, but subliminal is more likely to be used in technical or specialized fields such as psychology, advertising, or media studies.
