Thought-reading refers to the purported ability to perceive or interpret the thoughts or mental states of others without the use of any traditional mental or physical cues. It is often associated with paranormal phenomena, psychological assessments, or intuitive personal interactions, and is commonly depicted in fiction and entertainment as a form of telepathy or extraordinary empathy.
Thought-reading meaning with examples
- In the suspenseful thriller, the main character claims to possess thought-reading abilities, allowing her to navigate complex social situations by understanding the hidden motives of others, which creates both advantages and ethical dilemmas.
- During a heated debate, one participant accused another of thought-reading, arguing that their responses seemed eerily aligned with unexpressed sentiments, leading to discussions about the legitimacy and ethics of such perceived abilities.
- The mentalist showcased his thought-reading skills at the gala, astonishing the audience by accurately guessing a spectator's chosen word, prompting discussions about the boundaries between skill and genuine psychic phenomenon.
- In her therapy practice, the psychologist emphasized the importance of active listening over thought-reading, noting that while it is tempting to assume one understands clients’ thoughts, true comprehension requires attentive communication.
- The novel's protagonist, who possessed thought-reading abilities, faced challenges when they realized their gift was more of a curse, as knowing others’ thoughts led to overwhelming emotional burden and interpersonal conflict.