Meaning & use
an allusion
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Meaning
phrasecountable
an indirect reference to something, especially in literature or speech
Grammar: Countable: 'an allusion', 'allusions'. Often followed by 'to'.
Patterns
- allusion to something
- make an allusion
- literary allusion
The poem contains an allusion to Shakespeare's Hamlet.
His speech was full of allusions to classical mythology.
She made a quick allusion to the recent scandal.
Word forms
| plural | allusions |
|---|
Common combinations
- allusion to
- The title is an allusion to a famous song.
- literary allusion
- The novel is rich in literary allusions.
- make an allusion
- He made an allusion to their earlier argument.
- classical allusion
- Her writing is known for its classical allusions.
Synonyms and how they differ
Word family
Commonly confused: an allusion or illusion?
an allusion vs illusion
An illusion is a false idea or a trick of the senses, while an allusion is an indirect reference.
Practice
The author's ___ to Greek mythology adds depth to the story.
Choose one answer.
Allusion means an indirect reference, which fits with 'to Greek mythology'. 'Illusion' means a false impression, which does not fit here.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “an allusion”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.