Surreal means having the quality of being strange or dreamlike, often to the point of seeming inexplicable or fantastical. It can also refer to a style or movement in art that emphasizes the subconscious and irrational elements of human experience.

When to use it

People use 'surreal' when something is strange or dreamlike, as if lifted from a different reality or another world. It is often used to describe something that is unusual, unexpected, or bizarre, or to convey a feeling of disconnectedness or unreality. It is also used in the context of art, literature or film, to describe works that are characterized by strange or unsettling images, disjointed narratives, or unconventional styles.

Example sentences

  1. The dream I had last night was so surreal, I couldn't make sense of it.
  2. The Salvador Dali painting was full of surreal images and symbolism.
  3. The movie's plot was so surreal that I couldn't follow it.
  4. Walking through the abandoned amusement park felt surreal.
  5. Standing on the edge of the cliff, staring at the sunset, I felt a surreal sense of peace.
  6. The circus performers' costumes were designed to create a surreal atmosphere.
  7. The science fiction novel took place in a surreal futuristic world.
  8. The underwater world was so surreal, it felt like I was in a different dimension.
  9. The artist's work incorporated surreal elements to challenge the viewer's perception.
  10. The psychedelic lights and music created a surreal experience at the concert.

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Reference:

Definition of SURREAL
marked by the intense irrational reality of a dream; also : unbelievable, fantastic; surrealistic… See the full definition

https://www.collinsdictionary.com/dictionary/english/surreal