Imaginary Meaning and Definition
Imaginary
Pronunciation
/əˈmædʒɪnəri/
Part of Speech
Noun or adjective
Definition
A concept or thing that exists only in the mind or imagination, rather than in reality.
Examples
- The artist’s imaginary world was full of vibrant colors and fantastical creatures.
- The company’s imaginary profits were based on unrealistic sales projections.
Synonyms
- Fanciful
- Idealized
- Fantastical
Antonyms
- Real
- Concrete
- Tangible
Additional Information
Imaginary things or concepts can be a powerful tool for creativity, inspiration, and self-expression. However, it is important to distinguish between imaginary and real-world considerations when making decisions or planning for the future.
Imaginary is often used as an antonym for real, but it can also be used to describe something that is not physically present but has a significant impact on our lives, such as emotions or relationships.
Etymology
The word “imaginary” comes from the Latin “imaginarius,” meaning “to form an image of,” and the Greek “eikon,” meaning “image” or “representation.”
Usage Notes
Imaginary should be used to describe something that is not real or tangible, but can also be used to describe something that is imaginary in the sense of being invented or created in one’s mind.
Cultural References
Imaginary has appeared in various forms of media, including literature, film, and music. For example, the concept of an imaginary friend is often depicted in children’s literature and film.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“Let your imagination run wild” is a common idiomatic expression that encourages people to think creatively and freely.
Related Words or Phrases
Words and phrases that are related to imaginary include imaginative, invention, creative, and fantastical.
Collocations
Imaginary is often used in combination with words such as “world,” “place,” or “life” to describe a fantastical or imaginary setting.
Frequency of Use
Imaginary is a relatively common word that is used in a variety of contexts, including literature, art, and everyday conversation.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings of imaginary include “imaginery” and “imagination.”