psychoactive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "psychoactive" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe substances that affect the mind or behavior, often in the context of drugs or medications. Example: "Cannabis is known for its psychoactive properties, which can alter perception and mood."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Most illegal psychoactive drugs are controlled by the Misuse of Drugs Act.

The Guardian

The main part of the bill deals with the powers of the police to investigate and prosecute people involved in the supply and use of legal highs and related psychoactive substances.

The Guardian

One medical and recreational psychoactive substance that is currently used in research is ketamine.

The Guardian

With appropriate monitoring of people's safety, research with psychoactive drugs is no more risky than many other research procedures in neuroscience and medicine.

The Guardian

Nor do the phrases "northern powerhouse" and "psychoactive drugs" trip easily off the royal tongue.

The Guardian

The legislation, being published on Friday, will make it illegal to produce, distribute, sell or supply "new psychoactive substances" in Britain, whether over the internet or through a high street 'head shop'.

The Guardian

The definition used in the Home Office bill implementing the ban on legal highs is widely drawn and covers "any substance intended for human consumption that is capable of producing a psychoactive effect".

The Guardian

The legislation will distinguish between everyday psychoactive substances such as alcohol, tobacco, caffeine and some medicinal products and new designer drugs that imitate more traditional illegal substances.

The Guardian

Related: Psychoactive substances ban 'will end brain research in Britain', experts warn The bill also includes powers to shut down websites, and powers for the police to enter and search premises by warrants if necessary, and seize and destroy legal highs.

The Guardian

"The landmark bill will fundamentally change the way we tackle new psychoactive substances – and put an end to the game of cat and mouse in which new drugs appear on the market more quickly than the government can identify and ban them," he said.

The Guardian

Their next problem is how to regulate the market in psychoactive chemicals.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing policy or legal matters, "psychoactive substances" is preferred over the colloquialism "legal highs". This conveys a more formal and precise tone.

Common error

Don't assume all drugs are "psychoactive"; specify only when the substance directly affects mental processes. Many medications have physical effects without altering the mind.

Linguistic Context

The term "psychoactive" functions primarily as an adjective, modifying nouns to specify that they affect the mind or mental processes. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Encyclopedias

14%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Social Media

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "psychoactive" is a commonly used adjective that precisely describes substances affecting the mind or mental processes. Ludwig confirms its correct and frequent usage, particularly in contexts such as news reporting, encyclopedic entries, and scientific literature. While alternatives like "mind-altering" or "psychotropic" exist, "psychoactive" offers a specific and often preferred term in formal settings. The term is grammatically sound and its meaning well-established, making it a valuable descriptor when accuracy is key.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mind-altering

Focuses on the general effect on consciousness.

psychotropic

Highlights the effect on the psyche or mental state.

mood-altering

Emphasizes the impact on emotional state.

consciousness-altering

Specifically indicates changes in awareness.

mind-bending

Implies a more intense or unusual alteration of perception.

affecting cognition

More scientifically highlights the impact on thinking.

affecting mental processes

Broadly describes impact on mental functioning.

neurologically active

Focuses on the neurological impact of a substance.

cerebrally stimulating

Highlights the stimulating impact on the brain.

altering perception

Focuses specifically on changes in how one perceives the world.

FAQs

How can I use "psychoactive" in a sentence?

You can use "psychoactive" to describe substances that affect the mind. For example: "Cannabis is known for its psychoactive properties" or "The new legislation targets psychoactive substances."

What's a simpler alternative to "psychoactive"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "mind-altering", "psychotropic", or "mood-altering".

Is it correct to say all drugs are "psychoactive"?

No, it's not accurate to say all drugs are "psychoactive". Only drugs that affect the mind or mental processes are considered "psychoactive". Other drugs may have purely physical effects.

What is the difference between "psychoactive" and "addictive"?

"Psychoactive" refers to a substance's ability to affect the mind, while "addictive" refers to its potential to cause dependence. A substance can be psychoactive without being addictive, and vice versa.