hypnotism
C1Formal, Technical
Definition
Meaning
The practice of inducing a hypnotic state, characterized by increased suggestibility and deep relaxation.
The study of, or the art of, inducing hypnosis; more broadly, a compelling or irresistible influence that captures one's attention as if by hypnosis.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Refers specifically to the practice or technique itself, rather than the theoretical study (hypnosis). It can have a clinical connotation.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning. The British spelling 'hypnotise' (verb) contrasts with American 'hypnotize', but the noun 'hypnotism' is identical.
Connotations
Slightly more associated with historical stage performances and fringe practices in both dialects. In clinical contexts, 'hypnotherapy' is often preferred.
Frequency
Low-medium frequency in both, with 'hypnosis' being more common in general discourse.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
subject + practise + hypnotism + on + objecthypnotism + is + used + to + infinitiveVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “under the hypnotism of (e.g., 'under the hypnotism of her voice')”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rare. Used metaphorically: 'The market was under the hypnotism of the new tech trend.'
Academic
Used in psychology, history of medicine, and performance studies contexts.
Everyday
Used to describe a very compelling influence, e.g., 'The hypnotism of the flickering screen.'
Technical
The specific practice of inducing a hypnotic trance, distinct from the state itself.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- The therapist will hypnotise the patient.
- He was easily hypnotised by the rhythmic sound.
American English
- The therapist will hypnotize the patient.
- She was completely hypnotized by the movie.
adverb
British English
- He spoke hypnotically, weaving a spell with his words.
American English
- The lights pulsed hypnotically on the dance floor.
adjective
British English
- His hypnotic gaze held her attention.
- The music had a hypnotic rhythm.
American English
- Her hypnotic voice was very calming.
- The film's visuals were hypnotic.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The magic show had hypnotism.
- Some doctors use hypnotism to help people stop smoking.
- The documentary explored the history of stage hypnotism and its ethical controversies.
- Despite its fringe reputation, hypnotism is gaining traction as a validated adjunct to cognitive behavioural therapy.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'Hypno' (sleep) + '-ism' (a practice). It's the *practice* of making someone 'sleepy' and suggestible.
Conceptual Metaphor
ATTENTION/INFLUENCE IS HYPNOTISM (e.g., 'the hypnotism of advertising').
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid directly translating 'hypnotism' as 'гипноз' when referring to the *state*; 'гипноз' covers both the state and the practice. Use 'гипнотизм' or 'практика гипноза' for the practice specifically.
Common Mistakes
- Confusing 'hypnotism' (the act) with 'hypnosis' (the state/the field). Using it as a verb (incorrect: 'He hypnotismed me'; correct: 'He hypnotised me').
Practice
Quiz
Which word most specifically refers to the *act* of inducing a hypnotic state?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
'Hypnosis' primarily refers to the *state* of trance or the field of study. 'Hypnotism' specifically refers to the *practice* or *technique* of inducing that state.
No. While relaxed, a hypnotised person is in a heightened state of focused attention and suggestibility, not unconscious sleep.
Mainstream psychological research indicates that hypnosis cannot make you act against your core moral values or deeply held wishes.
It is a recognized term, but in modern clinical settings, 'hypnotherapy' (the therapeutic use of hypnosis) or simply 'clinical hypnosis' are more commonly used.