more illusory

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "more illusory" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing the degree of illusion or deception between two or more things, suggesting that one is less real or more deceptive than the other. Example: "In the context of advertising, the promises made can often be more illusory than the actual product benefits."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

Could her tale be revealed as more illusory than real?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It is in the decades that follow that discriminatory policies can become more illusory.

The New York Times

Even after the attack on Mariupol, Mr Poroshenko remains publicly committed to a diplomatic solution that seems ever more illusory.

The Economist

At times, the border itself seems more illusory than real, with even the locals disagreeing on its exact location.

The New York Times

The spirit in the region that animated her quest three years ago has been exposed as more illusory than real.

The New York Times - Books

The enemy will become only more illusory as time passes, creating a situation that will become more frustrating.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

Besides double imagery Dali was interested in more complicated illusory strategies, like anamorphosis, an elongated distortion that looks normal only when viewed from a certain perspective.

The New York Times - Arts

This means choices are limited, or often (even more infuriatingly) illusory, which in turn means that there is no grander interactivity to compensate for the lack of moment-to-moment mechanical control.

The Guardian - Tech

One does not have to be a skeptic on par with, say, Aristotle, to doubt that this element of skill is anything more than illusory, but it is enough to exempt the machines from most states' laws barring home ownership of gambling equipment.

The New York Times

Accordingly, by using more salient illusory figures, one could expect to find a P1 effect even in the classic mode of presentation.

Plosone

Perhaps no aspect of inflammation is more compelling, or illusory, than the idea that it may be responsible for aging.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "more illusory" when comparing the perceived reality of two different concepts or situations. For example, "The benefits of the policy are more illusory than its actual impact."

Common error

Avoid using "more illusory" excessively in formal writing where a more precise term like "deceptive" or "unsubstantiated" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "more illusory" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It modifies a noun, indicating a greater degree of being deceptive or unreal compared to something else. Ludwig AI confirms this is correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

28%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "more illusory" is a grammatically sound and relatively common expression used to describe something that appears deceptively real but is ultimately unreal. Ludwig AI validates this usage. It is most frequently found in news and media and scientific contexts, suggesting a neutral formality level. When using "more illusory", consider whether a more precise term like "deceptive" or "unsubstantiated" might enhance clarity, especially in formal writing. When using it, you are suggesting something is increasingly removed from reality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more deceptive

Focuses on the misleading or fraudulent aspect.

more misleading

Focuses on actively leading someone to a wrong conclusion.

more illusive

Stresses the difficulty of grasping or holding onto something.

more unrealistic

Highlights the lack of connection to reality.

more delusional

Emphasizes a state of fixed false belief.

more specious

Indicates something that appears correct but is actually false.

less substantial

Indicates a lack of physical or factual basis.

less tangible

Highlights the absence of a concrete or material quality.

increasingly fanciful

Emphasizes the growing nature of being imaginary and unrealistic.

more chimerical

Refers to something wildly fanciful or imaginative.

FAQs

How can I use "more illusory" in a sentence?

You can use "more illusory" to compare the deceptiveness of two things, suggesting one is less real than the other. For example, "The promise of quick riches is often "more illusory" than the reality of hard work".

What are some alternatives to "more illusory"?

Alternatives include "more deceptive", "more unrealistic", or "more delusional", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "more illusory" in writing?

It is appropriate when discussing the perceived reality of something versus its actual reality, especially when comparing two similar concepts. For instance, "The initial hope for peace became "more illusory" as the conflict escalated".

Is "more illusory" a formal or informal phrase?

It is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but in very formal or scientific writing, consider whether a more precise term might be preferred. For example, use "less tangible" or "less substantial".