supernaturalism

/,sju:pə'nætʃrəlizm/

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Supernaturalism is a noun that refers to the belief in or the quality of things that are beyond what we can naturally see or understand. It often involves ideas of magic, spirits, gods, or other forces that are not part of the natural world we experience every day.

Explanation:

• Definition: Supernaturalism is about things that seem to go beyond the normal laws of nature. For example, if someone believes in ghosts or magic, they are engaging in supernaturalism.
• Quality: It implies that there are powers or forces that cannot be explained by science or everyday experience.

Usage Instructions:

• You can use "supernaturalism" when discussing beliefs or ideas that involve the magical or the mystical. It is often used in religious, philosophical, or literary contexts.

Example:

• "Many ancient cultures practiced supernaturalism, believing in gods and spirits that influenced their lives."

Advanced Usage:

• In literature, supernaturalism may be used as a theme where characters interact with supernatural beings or forces. For example, in many horror stories, supernaturalism is a central element.

Word Variants:

• Supernatural (adjective): Relating to things beyond the natural world. Example: "The movie features supernatural elements like ghosts and witches."
• Supernaturally (adverb): In a way that is beyond what is natural. Example: "She seemed to know things supernaturally, as if she had special powers."

Different Meanings:

• While "supernaturalism" primarily refers to beliefs about supernatural forces, it can also describe artistic or literary styles that incorporate these themes.

Synonyms:

• Mysticism: A belief that relates to the spiritual or the divine, often involving direct experiences with the divine.
• Occultism: The study of hidden knowledge, often related to supernatural forces.
• Miraculous: Something extraordinary that cannot be explained by natural or scientific laws.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There are no direct idioms or phrasal verbs specifically for "supernaturalism," but you might hear phrases like:
  • "Beyond the realm of the natural": Refers to things that cannot be understood by natural laws, similar to supernaturalism.
  • "Haunted by the past": Can imply a supernatural influence, often used metaphorically.

Academic

Noun

1. the quality of being attributed to power that seems to violate or go beyond natural forces
2. a belief in forces beyond ordinary human understanding

Synonyms

• supernaturalness