self-hypnosis: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Neutral to formal, used in technical, academic, and self-help contexts.
Quick answer
What does “self-hypnosis” mean?
The act or process of putting oneself into a hypnotic state without the assistance of another person.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The act or process of putting oneself into a hypnotic state without the assistance of another person.
A self-induced trance-like state of focused attention and heightened suggestibility, often used for relaxation, behavioral modification, or accessing subconscious thoughts.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Spelling and pronunciation are consistent. No significant usage differences.
Connotations
Neutral connotations in both varieties. Associated with therapeutic or self-improvement contexts.
Frequency
Slightly more common in American self-help literature, but overall frequency is similar.
Grammar
How to Use “self-hypnosis” in a Sentence
[Subject] + practise + self-hypnosis + (to-infinitive clause)[Subject] + use + self-hypnosis + (for + noun phrase)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “self-hypnosis” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- She learned to self-hypnotise to manage her anxiety.
- You can self-hypnotise quite effectively with practice.
American English
- He self-hypnotizes before every public speaking event.
- The book teaches you how to self-hypnotize for pain relief.
adverb
British English
- N/A. 'Self-hypnotically' is extremely rare and non-standard.
American English
- N/A. 'Self-hypnotically' is extremely rare and non-standard.
adjective
British English
- The self-hypnosis recording was remarkably effective.
- He reached a deep self-hypnosis state.
American English
- She used a self-hypnosis app on her phone.
- The self-hypnosis technique requires a quiet environment.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Possibly used in corporate wellness programmes for stress management.
Academic
Used in psychology, psychotherapy, and cognitive science papers.
Everyday
Used in self-help and wellness discussions.
Technical
Used in clinical psychology, hypnotherapy, and behavioral therapy manuals.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “self-hypnosis”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “self-hypnosis”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “self-hypnosis”
- Incorrect: 'He did a self-hypnosis' (prefer 'He practiced self-hypnosis').
- Misspelling as 'self-hypnotism' (less common).
- Confusing it with 'meditation' (meditation lacks the element of direct suggestion).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally, it is considered safe for most people as you remain in control. However, for individuals with certain psychiatric conditions, it is advised to consult a professional first.
Most people with an average ability to concentrate and a willingness to follow instructions can learn basic self-hypnosis techniques.
Meditation often focuses on mindfulness or emptying the mind, while self-hypnosis actively uses focused attention and suggestion to achieve a specific mental or behavioral outcome.
No, while guided recordings are common aids, the core technique involves using your own internal dialogue and imagination to induce the state and deliver suggestions.
The act or process of putting oneself into a hypnotic state without the assistance of another person.
Self-hypnosis is usually neutral to formal, used in technical, academic, and self-help contexts. in register.
Self-hypnosis: in British English it is pronounced /ˌself hɪpˈnəʊsɪs/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌself hɪpˈnoʊsɪs/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None specific to the word.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'SELF-help through hypNOSIS' – putting YOURSELF to sleep (a trance) for a purpose.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE MIND IS A PROGRAMMABLE MACHINE (one inputs one's own suggestions).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary distinguishing feature of self-hypnosis compared to general meditation?