This refers to the use of various hidden signals or messages by advertisers in order to appeal to the subconscious minds of consumers. These could be subtle images or sounds that escape the immediate attention of viewers but are comprehensible on closer look. This is in contrast to traditional advertising which tries to directly capture the attention of viewers by making the identity of the goods being advertised quite obvious to them. Subliminal advertising, which is banned in many countries, is usually employed in the advertisement of controversial goods that are not allowed to be advertised in popular media.
