Superhuman vs. Supernatural — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Maham Liaqat — Updated on May 2, 2024
Superhuman refers to extraordinary human abilities, often exceeding normal limits, while supernatural involves phenomena beyond the laws of nature.
Difference Between Superhuman and Supernatural
Table of Contents
ADVERTISEMENT
Key Differences
Superhuman abilities refer to powers or capabilities that extend beyond the normal range of human performance, often showcased in physical or mental feats. Whereas supernatural phenomena encompass elements that defy the conventional laws of physics or natural science, such as magic or ghostly apparitions.
Superhuman feats can be rooted in enhanced biological traits or extreme training, appearing in contexts like sports or intellectual achievements. On the other hand, supernatural occurrences are typically linked to mystical or magical sources, not explained by natural laws.
The concept of superhuman is often used to describe real-world peak performances or theoretically possible extensions of human capabilities through technology or evolution. Meanwhile, supernatural is used more in mythology, religion, and fiction, representing forces or beings that exist outside of scientific understanding.
Superhuman achievements can be quantifiable and observable, such as breaking athletic records or demonstrating exceptional memory. Conversely, supernatural events are usually based on anecdotal evidence or belief systems, lacking empirical confirmation.
Superhuman capabilities, though exceptional, remain within the realm of human potential and scientific explanation. In contrast, supernatural phenomena inherently suggest a break from reality as understood by current science.
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
Definition
Exceeds normal human capabilities
Beyond natural laws
Examples
Enhanced strength, speed, intelligence
Ghosts, magic, deities
Basis
Biological, technological enhancements
Mystical, magical origins
Observable
Yes, in real-world contexts
Typically in anecdotal or fictional
Relation to Reality
Potentially achievable
Outside conventional reality
Compare with Definitions
Superhuman
Exceptionally gifted in a particular skill.
Her superhuman memory makes her an excellent historian.
Supernatural
Involving magic or mystical powers.
The story revolves around a supernatural curse that haunts the village.
Superhuman
Exceeding usual human power or capability.
The athlete's superhuman effort won him the gold medal.
Supernatural
Associated with deities or divine intervention.
Many cultures attribute supernatural powers to their gods.
Superhuman
Beyond normal emotional or mental qualities.
He showed superhuman patience while dealing with the crisis.
Supernatural
Pertaining to phenomena beyond the natural world.
Supernatural beliefs often involve ghosts and spirits.
Superhuman
Achieved through artificial enhancement.
In the future, superhuman abilities might be accessible via genetic modifications.
Supernatural
Outside the scope of scientific understanding.
Supernatural events in the series are left unexplained by science.
Superhuman
Relating to beings with powers above humans in myths.
Superhuman heroes in stories often have divine origins.
Supernatural
Found in folklore and myth.
Supernatural creatures like vampires and werewolves are popular in folklore.
Superhuman
The term superhuman refers to humans or human-like lifeforms with enhanced qualities and abilities that exceed those naturally found in humans. These qualities may be acquired through natural ability, self-actualization or technological aids.
Supernatural
The supernatural encompasses supposed phenomena or entities that are not subject to the laws of nature. It is derived from Medieval Latin supernaturalis, from Latin super- (above, beyond, or outside of) + natura (nature ).
Superhuman
Above or beyond the human; preternatural or supernatural.
Supernatural
(of a manifestation or event) attributed to some force beyond scientific understanding or the laws of nature
A supernatural being
Superhuman
Beyond ordinary or normal human ability, power, or experience
"soldiers driven mad by superhuman misery" (John Reed).
Supernatural
Manifestations or events considered to be of supernatural origin, such as ghosts
A frightening manifestation of the supernatural
Superhuman
Beyond what is possible for a human being.
Supernatural
Of or relating to existence outside the natural world.
Superhuman
A human with remarkable abilities or superpowers.
Supernatural
Attributed to a power that seems to violate or go beyond natural forces.
Superhuman
Above or beyond what is human; sometimes, divine; as, superhuman strength; superhuman wisdom.
Supernatural
Of or relating to a deity.
Superhuman
Above or beyond the human or demanding more than human power or endurance;
Superhuman beings
Superhuman strength
Soldiers driven mad by superhuman misery
Supernatural
Of or relating to the immediate exercise of divine power; miraculous.
Supernatural
Of or relating to the miraculous.
Supernatural
That which is supernatural.
Supernatural
Above nature; 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.
Stephen King's first novel is about a girl named Carrie dealing with supernatural powers.
Supernatural
Not of the usual; not natural; altered by forces that are not understood fully if at all.
The house is haunted by supernatural forces.
Supernatural
(countable) A supernatural being
Supernatural
(uncountable) Supernatural beings and events collectively when used with definite article: "the supernatural"
Supernatural
Being beyond, or exceeding, the power or laws of nature; miraculous.
That is supernatural, whether it be, that is either not in the chain of natural cause and effect, or which acts on the chain of cause and effect in nature, from without the chain.
We must not view creation as supernatural, but we do look upon it as miraculous.
Supernatural
Supernatural forces and events and beings collectively;
She doesn't believe in the supernatural
Supernatural
Not existing in nature or subject to explanation according to natural laws; not physical or material;
Supernatural forces and occurrences and beings
Common Curiosities
How are superhuman abilities portrayed in media?
In films, literature, and comics, superhuman abilities are often depicted as results of genetic mutations, advanced technology, or extraordinary training.
Is belief in the supernatural common?
Yes, many cultures and religions include beliefs in supernatural elements as part of their worldview.
How do superhuman abilities impact society?
They can inspire, motivate, and sometimes set unrealistic expectations for human performance in various fields.
What defines a superhuman ability?
Superhuman abilities are those that exceed what is typically possible for the average human, either through natural talent, training, or technological enhancement.
Can anyone develop superhuman abilities?
While most people can improve their abilities, true superhuman feats are extremely rare and often involve innate exceptional traits or conditions.
What role do supernatural elements play in storytelling?
Supernatural elements are frequently used to create intrigue, challenge characters, or explore themes beyond mundane reality.
Can superhuman abilities be scientifically explained?
Yes, superhuman abilities usually have a basis in human biology or potential technological advancements and are within the realm of scientific study.
What are examples of supernatural phenomena?
Examples include apparitions, miracles, and other occurrences that cannot be explained by current scientific laws.
Are supernatural beliefs based on religion?
While not always, many supernatural beliefs do have roots in religious or spiritual contexts.
What scientific disciplines study superhuman abilities?
Fields like genetics, neurology, and sports science explore the extents and enhancements of human capabilities.
Is the supernatural considered real?
From a scientific standpoint, supernatural phenomena lack empirical support and are considered beyond current understanding or fictitious.
Share Your Discovery
Previous Comparison
Grand vs. Grandeur
Next Comparison
Tycoon vs. MogulAuthor Spotlight
Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
