WordValeallusion
an indirect reference to another work, person, or event
In more detail
1. (noun) an indirect or passing reference to something without mentioning it directly
2. (noun) a hint or suggestion about something
Examples
- 1. The poem contains an allusion to Greek mythology.
- 2. His remark was a clever allusion to her previous mistake.
How to use allusion
An allusion is a brief, indirect reference to something (often literary, historical, or cultural) rather than a full explanation. It differs from explicit mention because the audience must infer the connection. It's commonly used in literary, academic, and formal contexts where subtlety is valued.
Common phrases
- make an allusion to
- allusion to
- veiled allusion
- subtle allusion
- literary allusion
Synonyms
reference · hint · suggestion · indirect mention · oblique reference
Opposites
direct reference · explicit statement
Word family
allude (verb) · allusive (adjective) · allusively (adverb)
A common mistake
Learners often confuse 'allusion' with 'illusion' (a false impression or deception); they sound similar but have completely different meanings.
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