Confusing Words: Illusion (noun) and Delusion (noun)
Meaning:
Illusion (an instance of a wrong or misinterpreted perception of a sensory experience.)
Delusion (a mistaken or unfounded opinion or idea.)
Illusion vs Delusion Clarification: Both the words are grammatically correct but have small differences in their meanings. Both of them refer to the idea of misperception.
Illusion vs. Delusion – What is the Difference, Definition & Meaning?
Sometimes, a person might think twice while choosing a suitable word. Such is the case with illusion vs. delusion. Most of the people have confusions related to these words.
Illusion and delusion are two correct words to use within sentences. They have their specific meanings. Both of these words are related to perception, awareness or belief, that is why, these words are often mixed up. Let us define these terms one by one.
Illusion
Illusion is used as a noun within a sentence. It is used to refer to a misperception or a false belief; or something that is not true or real.
1. The game gives the illusion of safety.
2. Stop having the illusion that there will be a calm environment during the working hours.
3. We live in illusion and the appearance of the things. There is a reality. We are that reality. When you understand this, you see that you are nothing, and being nothing, you are everything. That is all. (Kalu Rinpoche)
Delusion
Like illusion, delusion is also used as a noun within a sentence. It is also used to refer to a misperception but in a dangerous way. Delusion is such an action that dangerously misleads a person and that results in a mental illness. It is, mainly, called an abnormal state that is full of such wrong beliefs.
1. He is not normal because he is still suffering under the delusion that he will be a failed person.
2. The ignorant mind, with its infinite afflictions, passions, and evils, is rooted in the three poisons. Greed, anger, and delusion. (Bodhi Dharma)
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Did You Get The Difference Between Illusion and Delusion?
The reason that the words ‘illusion’ and ‘delusion’ are often mixed up is that both of these words are related to the idea of misperception.
From the above examples and definitions of illusion and delusion, it has been noticed that delusion is such a state that is quite harmful and dangerous. Illusion is not as serious as a delusion. Though, illusion is a wrong belief but in an innocent way. It is not harmful like a delusion.
What Did You Learn?
Illusion and delusion describes two different states. So, it is important to keep them apart. Though, both of these words are related to a misperception but illusion is not as serious and dangerous than delusion.
Illusion: Magicians use illusions in their tricks.
Delusion: A delusion may be a suffering or an abnormal state.