mirage

• Nom désignant un phénomène optique dû à la réfraction de la lumière dans l'atmosphère, donnant l'illusion d'une étendue d'eau ou d'un objet lointain ; au sens figuré, une chose illusoire, trompeuse et impossible à atteindre.

A noun referring to an optical illusion caused by atmospheric conditions, or figuratively, something that is illusory and cannot be achieved.

1. Optical illusionB2formalscientific

   An optical phenomenon caused by atmospheric refraction, where a layer of hot air distorts or inverts reflections of distant objects, often creating the illusion of water.

   Mirage (illusion d'optique)

   • The desert traveler saw a mirage of a lake on the horizon.
   • Heat rising from the asphalt created a mirage on the road.
   • Mirages are common in hot, arid environments.

   Synonymesapparitionillusionoptical illusionphantasm

2. Illusory hopeB2formal

   Something that appears real or desirable but is actually unattainable or deceptive.

   mirage (sens figuré)

   • The promise of quick wealth turned out to be a mirage.
   • For many, the American Dream has become a mirage.
   • His hopes for a peaceful resolution were just a mirage.

   Synonymeschimeradaydreamdelusionfantasyfigmentillusionpipe dream

   Antonymescertaintyfactrealitysubstance