illusory control
[/ɪˈluːzəri kənˈtroʊl/]
nounpl: illusory controls
controle ilusório
1. A cognitive bias in which a person believes they have more control over events than they actually do, particularly over outcomes that are determined by chance or external factors
The gambler suffered from illusory control, believing his lucky rituals could influence the dice rolls.
O jogador sofria de controle ilusório, acreditando que seus rituais de sorte podiam influenciar os dados.
2. A psychological phenomenon where individuals overestimate their ability to influence or predict random events
Her illusory control over the stock market led her to make poor investment decisions.
Seu controle ilusório sobre o mercado de ações a levou a tomar decisões de investimento ruins.
This term is primarily used in academic and psychological contexts in both the USA and Brazil. It gained prominence through Ellen Langer's research on the illusion of control in the 1970s and is commonly referenced in behavioral economics, psychology, gambling addiction treatment, and investment education. In Brazilian culture, understanding this concept is increasingly important in discussions about financial literacy and responsible gambling.
Related Idioms & Phrases
having a false sense of control
believing you have more power than you do
fooling yourself about your influence
Look up more words on Fala2Me
The free English-Portuguese dictionary with real Brazilian accents, NYC slang, conjugator and more
Open Fala2Me →