Definition

In a way that is misleading or deceptive, causing someone to believe something that is not true.

Example

He delusively thought he could win the game without practicing.

Conversation

I think she believed she could win the game, but it was delusively optimistic.

Yeah, sometimes we get caught up in our hopes too much.

Right? It's like we trick ourselves into thinking things will turn out perfectly.

Exactly! Reality often hits harder than our delusively positive thoughts.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Delusively → It is formed from "delude" (from Latin "deludere", meaning to mock or deceive) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner of). The word "delusively" means in a manner that deceives or misleads.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'mocking' or 'deceiving' ('delude') and doing it 'in a manner' ('-ly'). This helps you remember that 'delusively' refers to the way someone misleads.

Visually Confused Words