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subliminal

adjective

/səˈblɪmɪn(ə)l/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of subliminal

Operating below the threshold of conscious perception.
"He argued that subliminal messages in music could affect behavior and emotions."

Detailed meaning of subliminal

It is information that is presented in a way that is not directly perceived by the individual, but is thought to influence their behavior or thoughts. For example, subliminal advertising is a controversial marketing technique in which a message or image is presented at a level that is below the threshold of conscious awareness, with the intent of influencing the consumer's behavior without them realizing it. This can be done through flashing images on a screen too quickly for the viewer to consciously perceive, or by hiding images in plain sight. Subliminal messages have been used in a variety of contexts, but their effectiveness is still the subject of scientific debate. Subliminal perception studies have been conducted for decades and results are inconclusive, some studies suggest that subliminal messages can affect behavior and decision making, while others suggest that they have little to no effect.

Example sentences containing subliminal

1. The subliminal message in the advertisement influenced viewers unconsciously.
2. Subliminal hints of nostalgia pervaded the old photograph.
3. His subliminal fear of failure drove him to succeed.
4. Subliminal cues can impact decision-making without awareness.
5. The subliminal hum of the city faded into the background.
6. Subliminal thoughts often shape our subconscious desires.

History and etymology of subliminal

The adjective 'subliminal' has its etymological roots in Latin. It combines 'sub,' meaning 'below,' and 'limen,' which means 'threshold.' In its original Latin form, 'subliminal' pertained to something occurring or existing below the threshold, particularly in the context of consciousness. Over time, it came to describe information or stimuli that operate below the threshold of conscious perception, meaning they are not readily noticed or processed by the conscious mind but may still have an influence on thoughts, feelings, or behaviors. This etymology underscores the connection between the prefix 'sub' denoting 'below' and the concept of the threshold, highlighting the idea of something being below the level of conscious awareness, which is fundamental to the meaning of 'subliminal.'

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Further usage examples of subliminal

1. The subliminal suggestion triggered a profound change.
2. Subliminal advertising tactics can be controversial.
3. Subliminal anxieties can affect one's mental well-being.
4. She detected a subliminal hint of sadness in his smile.
5. Subliminal influences shape our preferences without us realizing.
6. The subliminal soundtrack added depth to the movie.
7. Subliminal fears can hinder personal growth.
8. Subliminal manipulation of data distorted the results.
9. Subliminal dreams reveal hidden desires and fears.
10. The subliminal power of music can soothe the soul.
11. Subliminal conditioning can alter behavior over time.
12. Subliminal messaging in art can be thought-provoking.
13. The subliminal undertones in the novel resonated with readers.
14. Subliminal suggestions can lead to profound change.
15. The advertisement contained subliminal messages that were designed to influence the viewer's subconscious.
16. She argued that subliminal advertising was unethical and manipulative.
17. The movie was criticized for its use of subliminal imagery.
18. He was fascinated by the concept of subliminal messaging and its potential effects on the mind.
19. She argued that subliminal advertising should be banned as it can influence consumer behavior without their knowledge.
20. The company was accused of using subliminal advertising in their TV commercials.
21. He believed that subliminal messaging could be used for self-improvement and personal growth.
22. She was skeptical of the effectiveness of subliminal messaging, arguing that it was more of a gimmick than a science.
23. The technique was used in an effort to influence the subconscious mind, using subliminal messages.
24. He argued that subliminal messaging should be used with caution and transparency.
25. She believed that subliminal messages in movies and video games could have a negative impact on children.
26. We are bombarded with commercials that contain subliminal suggestions intended to influence our behaviour.