Auditory misinterpretation

Auditory misinterpretation is a fleeting experience in which an external sound or noise is mistaken for another notably distinct sound or noise. The type of faulty perception experienced during this state can vary. For example, one may interpret noises as intricate voices, elaborately detailed music, or other (unrelated) everyday sounds.

Experiences of auditory misinterpretation are typically sudden and brief in duration. As a result, it is common for people to internally reflect upon the event after recognizing the unusual nature of what they heard and quickly recognize that misinterpretation has taken place. In such a situation, once the sound has been consciously identified as being initially misinterpreted, the effect immediately ceases, sometimes happening quickly enough for the sound to be correctly resolved while it is being heard.

It is worth noting that while auditory misinterpretation often arises as an isolated effect component, it can also arise as the result of the combination of other coinciding effects, such as auditory hallucinations, auditory distortions, delirium, and confusion. It is most commonly induced under the influence of moderate dosages of deliriant compounds, such as DPH, datura, and benzydamine. However, it can also occur under the influence of other hallucinogens, such as psychedelics, dissociatives and heavy or paranoid cannabis experiences.