How to Say "delusion" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “delusion” is “ilusión” — use 'ilusión' when referring to a trick or deception, especially in entertainment or visual contexts, rather than a mental state.
ilusión
Examples
El mago creó una ilusión óptica impresionante.
The magician created an impressive optical illusion.
alucinación
Examples
El paciente tenía alucinaciones por la falta de sueño.
The patient was having hallucinations because of the lack of sleep.
delirio
deh-LEE-ryohdeˈliɾjo
Examples
La fiebre alta le provocó un estado de delirio.
The high fever caused him to enter a state of delirium.
En su delirio, el paciente creía que estaba en su casa.
In his delirium, the patient believed he was at home.
Sufre de un delirio de persecución y cree que lo siguen.
He suffers from a delusion of persecution and thinks he's being followed.
It's a Masculine Noun
Always use 'el' or 'un' with this word. For example: 'el delirio' or 'un delirio'.
Abstract Concept
This word usually refers to the state of mind rather than a single specific thought, though it can be used for both.
Confusion with 'Delirious'
Mistake: “Estoy delirio.”
Correction: Estoy delirando (I am raving) or 'Tengo delirio' (I have delirium). 'Delirio' is the thing, not the description of the person.
Distinguishing 'ilusión' from mental states
Related Translations
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