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Paranormal vs Supernatural - What's the difference?

paranormal | supernatural |

Supernatural is a synonym of paranormal.



As adjectives the difference between paranormal and supernatural

is that paranormal is that cannot be explained by scientific methods while supernatural is above nature; that which is beyond or added to nature, often so considered because it is given by a deity or some force beyond that which humans are born with. In Roman Catholic theology, sanctifying grace is considered to be a supernatural addition to human nature.

As a noun supernatural is

a supernatural being.

paranormal

English

Adjective

(en adjective)
  • That cannot be explained by scientific methods.
  • .

    • supernatural

    English

    Adjective

    (en adjective)
  • Above nature; that which is beyond or added to nature, often so considered because it is given by a deity or some force beyond that which humans are born with. In Roman Catholic theology, is considered to be a supernatural addition to human nature.
  • Not of the usual; not natural; altered by forces that are not understood fully if at all.
    • The house is haunted by supernatural forces.
  • Neither visible nor measurable.

    • Synonyms

    * extraordinary, paranormal, preternatural, supranatural, unnatural

    Antonyms

    * ordinary * natural

    Noun

    (en noun)
  • (countable) A supernatural being.
  • (uncountable) Supernatural beings and events collectively.
  • * 2012 , Blake Morrison, The Guardian , [http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2012/jul/20/blake-morrison-under-the-witches-spell?INTCMP=SRCH]:
    • Dr Johnson defended Shakespeare's use of the supernatural from the charge of implausibility on the grounds that, "The reality of witchcraft … has in all ages and countries been credited by the common people, and in most by the learned."