an altered state

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an altered state" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a condition of consciousness that is different from the normal waking state, often associated with meditation, drug use, or other experiences. Example: "Many people seek an altered state of consciousness through various practices such as yoga or deep meditation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

She was in an altered state.

The New Yorker

The evening was experienced in an altered state.

The New York Times

In the field you achieve something of an altered state.

The New York Times

And then she posted a lot on Facebook, perhaps in an altered state.

The New Yorker

Such questions make you wonder whether the contestants really are in an altered state.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

In interview after interview, Brown has refused to do tricks on journalists, let alone put them into an altered state.

The Guardian

Weaver was suffering the side-effects of this and although able to absorb the information, was in an altered state.

The Guardian - Books

Routinely, I do so in an altered state.

Vice

It certainly rewards a viewing in an altered state.

Huffington Post

The noises were then magnetically manipulated, then played back to viewers in an altered state.

Vice

Repetition of the currents, rhythms, and syllables loosen the mooring on the physical organism induce an altered state.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the cause of "an altered state", be specific about the influencing factor, such as "induced by meditation" or "resulting from medication".

Common error

Avoid assuming that "an altered state" is inherently negative. While it can describe states related to intoxication or mental illness, it also encompasses positive experiences like deep meditation or creative flow.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an altered state" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "altered" modifies the noun "state". It is frequently used to describe a condition that deviates from normal awareness or physical condition. Examples from Ludwig show it describing states induced by drugs, meditation, or illness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

17%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Science & Research

13%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an altered state" is a versatile phrase used to describe a condition of consciousness or physical being that deviates from the norm. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usability across various contexts, including news, academia, and general discussion. While it is important to be mindful of potential negative connotations, especially when describing causes, understanding its nuances allows for more precise communication. Related phrases such as "a modified condition" or "a shifted consciousness" offer alternatives, but direct synonyms such as "altered consciousness" have a semantic similarity. Use the phrase confidently, being specific about the influencing factors and avoiding the assumption that all such states are inherently negative.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

An altered consciousness

Direct synonym, emphasizing the change in awareness.

A shifted consciousness

Specifically refers to a change in awareness or perception.

A different state of mind

Highlights the mental or cognitive aspect of the change.

A transformed state

Implies a more significant or profound change in condition.

A modified condition

Focuses on the change in state rather than specifically a change in consciousness.

A changed condition

General term for a state that is no longer the same.

An unconventional state of mind

Emphasizes the deviation from normal mental states.

A dreamlike state

Suggests a state similar to dreaming, with altered perceptions and reality.

A trance-like state

Implies a specific altered state often associated with hypnosis or deep meditation.

A heightened awareness

Focuses on an increase in sensory or perceptive abilities.

FAQs

How can I use "an altered state" in a sentence?

You can use "an altered state" to describe a change in consciousness or condition. For example, "Meditation can induce "an altered state" of mind" or "The patient was found in "an altered state" after taking the medication".

What are some synonyms for "an altered state"?

Some alternatives to "an altered state" include "a modified condition", "a transformed state", or "a shifted consciousness", depending on the context.

Is "an altered state" always negative?

No, "an altered state" is not always negative. It simply means a change from the normal state of consciousness and can refer to experiences like meditation, heightened creativity, or even the effects of certain medications, which can be beneficial.

What's the difference between "an altered state" and "an altered state of consciousness"?

The phrases "an altered state" and "an altered state of consciousness" are often used interchangeably. However, "an altered state of consciousness" explicitly emphasizes the change in awareness or perception, while "an altered state" can refer more broadly to a change in physical or mental condition.