delirio
/deˈliɾjo/masculine
The English word 'delusion' can be translated into Spanish as delirio. Wiktionary also lists idea delirante and delusión.
Meaning: that which is falsely or delusively believed or propagated, false belief, error in belief (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| delirio | /deˈliɾjo/ | masculine |
| idea delirante | /idea deliɾante/ (from spelling rules) | feminine |
| delusión | /delusjon/ (from spelling rules) | feminine |
| fatamorgana | /fatamoɾɡana/ (from spelling rules) | feminine |
The term refers to a false belief or an error in belief. In a medical or intense psychological context, delirio is the standard term used to describe a delusion. You can also use the phrase el delirio de que… to idiomatically express being under the delusion that something is true. If you need a more formal way to express a false belief or conviction, you may use falsa creencia.
Which one should you use?
While delirio is the standard term for a psychological or intense delusion, idea delirante is used to describe a specific delusional thought or idea in a medical or descriptive sense.
How does it change in a sentence?
Delirio is a masculine noun. Idea delirante, delusión and fatamorgana are feminine nouns.
How do you pronounce it?
/deˈliɾjo/
Did you know?
- The word delirio comes from the Latin dēlīrāre, which literally meant 'to deviate from the furrow' or 'to go off the path'.
- While delirio is often used for medical delusions, in literature it is frequently used to describe a state of intense ecstasy or passion.
- The word delirante can be used as an adjective to describe something absurd or outrageous, such as a 'delirious' price increase.
Examples in context
- Mi abuelo vive con el delirio de que aún estamos en guerra.My grandpa is under the delusion that we're still at war.This sentence shows how to use delirio to express being under a specific delusion.Tatoeba #2885209 by marcelostockle, translation #2897066 by megamanenm
- No caigas en el autoengaño, debes ser realista y ver las cosas como son.Don't fall into self-deception, you must be realistic and see things as they are.
- El político vive en un delirio de grandeza.The politician lives in a delusion of grandeur.
- Ese es un delirio sin ningún fundamento.That is a delusion without any basis.
Example conversation
María and Javier are discussing a strange theory they heard.
- MaríaÉl cree que es el rey de España.He believes he is the king of Spain.
- JavierEso suena a un delirio total, María.That sounds like a total delusion, María.
- MaríaSí, pero él está convencido de ello.Yes, but he is convinced of it.
- JavierNecesita ayuda profesional pronto.He needs professional help soon.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “delusion” translations and entries delirio, delusión, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries delirio, idea, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
