phantom
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈfæntəm/
KK: /ˈfæntəm/
adjective
Definition
Not real or existing; something that is imagined or not actually present.
Example
The phantom figure disappeared into the mist, leaving everyone confused.
Conversation
I saw a phantom figure in the old house last night.
Really? That sounds spooky!
Yeah, it felt so real, but I think it was just my imagination playing tricks.
It's funny how our minds can create such phantom images in the dark.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
illusory
spectral
imaginary
Antonyms
real
tangible
substantial
noun
Definition
A ghost or an illusion that is not real and cannot be touched or seen in a physical way.
Example
The old house was said to be haunted by a phantom that roamed the halls at night.
Conversation
I had the strangest dream last night about a phantom that kept following me.
Wow, that sounds creepy! What happened?
It felt so real, like the phantom was actually there with me.
Root Explanation
Phantom → It is derived from the Greek word "phantasma" (meaning an appearance or an apparition), which comes from "phanai" (meaning to show or to appear). The word "phantom" refers to something that appears but is not real, often associated with ghosts or illusions.
Memory Tip
Imagine something that 'shows' itself but isn't really there — that's what a phantom is, an appearance without reality.
Visually Confused Words
pantoum
panto
plantdom