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allusion

/əˈluːʒən/ noun C1 Academic

Meaning

An indirect or passing reference to something, often used to suggest a connection or idea without explicitly stating it.
💡 Be careful not to confuse 'allusion' with 'illusion', which refers to a false perception or belief.

Example Sentences

During the presentation , the CEO made an allusion to the company's recent acquisition , hinting at future strategic shifts .
The author's subtle allusion to classical mythology added a layer of depth to the narrative , inviting readers to explore the ancient parallels within the story .
The report makes an allusion to the previous year's findings , suggesting that the current trends are consistent with past data .
The study makes several allusions to previous research , highlighting the continuity and evolution of theories in the field of cognitive psychology .

Word in Context

During the weekly editorial meeting , the manager made a subtle allusion to the readership decline , choosing implication over direct criticism to preserve morale . Several colleagues , who had convened early to review analytics , nodded in recognition while others examined the charts more closely . Although no explicit blame was assigned , the remark prompted a deliberate reassessment of distribution strategies and editorial priorities . Whereas some team members advocated for incremental adjustments , others proposed a bolder overhaul that would recalibrate the magazine's tone . They agreed to pilot two contrasting approaches over the next quarter , provided that measurable criteria were established to evaluate impact . After the meeting , Mara felt reassured that the nuanced exchange had steered the group toward constructive solutions without disrupting collegial relations .

Common Phrases

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