mi
rage
Plural
mirages
1
something that appears desirable or promising but is ultimately unattainable or elusive
- For many struggling artists, fame and fortune can seem like a mirage, always shimmering on the horizon but never within reach.
- The concept of a perfect, harmonious society often proves to be a mirage, as human nature and conflicting interests make it unattainable.
- In the world of finance, the idea of quick and easy wealth can be a mirage, luring investors with promises of high returns but often leading to disappointment.
- The pursuit of eternal youth is often likened to chasing a mirage, as despite advancements in medicine and cosmetics, aging remains an inevitable reality.
- Some people spend their lives chasing after the mirage of happiness, believing it lies in material possessions or external achievements, only to find true contentment eludes them.
2
an optical illusion caused by atmospheric conditions, creating the appearance of water, objects, or landscapes where none exist
- In the desert heat, weary travelers often mistake distant sand dunes for shimmering lakes due to mirages.
- The nomads knew to distrust their senses when they spotted what appeared to be an oasis, recognizing it as a mirage.
- Despite the intense thirst, the explorers refrained from chasing after the mirage, knowing it was a trick of the light.
- The driver slowed down as they approached what seemed like a highway ahead, realizing it was merely a mirage.
- The scientist explained how mirages occur as a result of light refraction, creating false images in the distance.