mirage

/'mirɑ:ʤ/

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Sure! Let's break down the word "mirage" in a way that's easy to understand.

Definition:

A mirage is a noun that refers to something that looks real but isn’t actually there. It often happens in hot places where the air is very warm. Because of this warm air, light bends in such a way that it can create an illusion, making you think you see something that isn't really there, like water on a road on a hot day.

Usage:

You can use "mirage" in sentences when talking about illusions, both physical and metaphorical.

Advanced Usage:

In a more metaphorical sense, "mirage" can be used to describe hopes or dreams that seem possible but are actually very difficult or impossible to achieve.

Word Variants:

The word "mirage" does not have many direct variants, but you can use the adjective "mirage-like" to describe something that resembles a mirage.

Different Meanings:

1. Literal Meaning: Referring to the optical phenomenon described above, often seen in deserts or hot roads.
2. Figurative Meaning: Referring to unattainable dreams or illusions in life.

Synonyms:

Some synonyms for "mirage" include: - Illusion - Delusion - Phantasm - Fantasy

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While there aren’t specific idioms or phrasal verbs that use "mirage," you might see it used in phrases like: - "Chasing a mirage" - This means pursuing something that is unattainable.

Summary:

So, remember that a "mirage" can refer to both a visual illusion caused by heat and a metaphor for dreams or goals that seem reachable but are actually not.

Academic

Noun

1. something illusory and unattainable
2. an optical illusion in which atmospheric refraction by a layer of hot air distorts or inverts reflections of distant objects