telekinesis
C1/C2Formal / Technical / Fictional
Definition
Meaning
The supposed ability to move objects at a distance by mental power alone, without physical contact.
The concept of influencing or manipulating physical matter through the mind's force, often used in fiction (e.g., superhero, paranormal genres). Also, can be used metaphorically to describe achieving something remotely without direct physical intervention.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
A term from parapsychology and speculative fiction. While often used seriously in paranormal contexts, its primary contemporary use is in popular culture. Implies a supernatural or superhuman ability.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in definition or usage between UK and US English.
Connotations
Same paranormal/fictional connotations in both varieties.
Frequency
Slightly higher frequency in US English due to greater volume of related pop culture media.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[Subject] used telekinesis to [Verb] the [Object].The [Subject]'s telekinesis was strong enough to [Verb].Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “A case of mental heavy lifting. (metaphorical, informal)”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rarely used. Potentially metaphorical: 'The CEO's telekinesis-like influence moved markets.'
Academic
Used in parapsychology, psychology (skeptically), philosophy of mind, and literary/film studies.
Everyday
Almost exclusively in discussions of sci-fi, fantasy, superhero media, or paranormal claims.
Technical
Specific term in parapsychological research, though not accepted by mainstream science.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- The character telekinetically lifted the car. (adj. form common)
- (Verb use rare/non-standard) She can telekinese small objects.
American English
- He telekinetically manipulated the locks. (adj. form common)
- (Verb use rare/non-standard) The villain telekinesed the rubble towards the hero.
adverb
British English
- The object moved telekinetically.
- (Rare) She performed the feat telekinetically.
American English
- He threw the ball telekinetically.
- (Rare) The door opened telekinetically.
adjective
British English
- Her telekinetic abilities were astonishing.
- The film featured a telekinetic protagonist.
American English
- He has telekinetic powers.
- A telekinetic event was reported.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- (Not applicable; concept too advanced for A2.)
- In the film, the girl has telekinesis.
- Telekinesis is a superpower.
- The scientist tried to test the claim of telekinesis under controlled conditions.
- Many fantasy novels feature heroes with telekinetic abilities.
- Despite numerous studies, conclusive scientific evidence for telekinesis remains elusive.
- The narrative explores the ethical implications of wielding telekinetic power in a mundane world.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
TELEkinesis = TELE (far/distance, like television) + KINESIS (movement, like kinetic). Movement from a distance.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE MIND IS A FORCE (capable of applying pressure, moving things). THOUGHTS ARE PHYSICAL TOOLS.
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Direct translation 'телекинез' is used and understood in Russian, primarily in the same paranormal/fiction contexts. No significant trap, but note it's a low-frequency, specialised loanword.
Common Mistakes
- Confusing with 'telepathy' (mind-reading). Misspelling: 'telekenesis'. Using as a verb directly ('He telekinesised the cup') is non-standard; preferred: 'He used telekinesis on the cup'.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary field of study associated with telekinesis?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Mainstream science does not accept telekinesis as a real, demonstrable phenomenon. It is considered a subject of parapsychology and is prevalent in fiction.
Telekinesis involves moving physical objects with the mind. Telepathy involves reading thoughts or communicating mentally with another person.
It is primarily a noun. The derivative 'telekinese' is rarely used as a verb. The adjectival form 'telekinetic' and adverb 'telekinetically' are standard.
Essentially yes. 'Psychokinesis' (PK) is often used as a broader, more technical term in parapsychology, while 'telekinesis' is more common in general usage and fiction.