Allusion or Illusion?

These two words sound almost identical when spoken quickly; however, they have entirely different meanings. An allusion is a reference to something or somebody. Synonyms are mention, hint, and suggestion. The Spanish translation is alusión. Below are some examples of its use in sentences:

-While talking about the immigration situation in the U.S. he made an allusion to the similar
situation in Spain.
-In the speakers presentation there was an allusion to the role of schools in society.
-He made an allusion to the role of the current administration in causing the problem.

An illusion is something that deceives by producing a false representation of reality. Synonyms are unreality, deception, and mirage. The Spanish translation is ilusión. Below are some examples of its use in sentences:

-His happiness was only an illusion.
-The color and size of the figure created the illusion that it was larger than it really was.
-The heat rising from the highway creates the optical illusion that the road is covered with
water.

Double click on the images above and you will find some exercises and answers to test your knowledge of the differences between the two words.