disillusion

Disillusion is the experience or process by which a person loses naive or idealized beliefs when confronted with contrary evidence. As a noun, disillusionment refers to the feeling of disappointment and loss of trust that follows the realization that a cherished belief, dream, or institution is not as good or true as imagined. As a verb, to disillusion means to cause someone to realize the truth behind an illusion.

Etymology and scope: The term derives from dis- (not, opposite of) and illusion; it is from Early Modern English and has evolved to cover both the emotional reaction of disappointment and the cognitive process of updating beliefs. While often framed as negative, disillusion can also be seen as emancipatory, clearing away false expectations and contributing to a more accurate or resilient worldview.

Contexts and usage: Disillusionment is widely discussed in politics, social movements, journalism, and everyday life when promises or ideologies fail to materialize. In literature and film, it describes a turning point in which a character’s realization of flaws in an idealized world reshapes their outlook. In a broader sense, disillusion may motivate critical thinking, reassessment of values, or, conversely, a more skeptical or cynical stance.

See also: illusion, disillusionment (as a concept), cynicism, skepticism, critical thinking.