Illusion
easyNegative toneih-LOO-zhun
noun
Definition
A false idea or belief; a deceptive appearance
Memory hook
ILL-USION: a false vision that MOCKS reality — something deceptive (not allusion = indirect reference).
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The oasis was merely an illusion caused by the heat.”
“She harbored no illusions about the difficulty of the task.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The oasis was merely an ______ caused by the heat.”
Show answer
illusion
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Illusion is a easy-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "delusion" or "mirage" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "reality".
Related GRE Words
apparent
Clearly visible or understood; seeming real or true but not necessarily so
bogus
Not genuine or true; fake
evident
Plain or obvious; clearly seen or understood
acute
Having or showing a perceptive understanding or insight; sharp or severe
artifice
Clever or cunning devices or expedients, especially to deceive; trickery
astute
Having or showing an ability to accurately assess situations or people and turn this to one's advantage
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