Superstition - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Superstition is a belief or practice based on irrational thoughts, often attributing events to supernatural causes rather than natural laws. Examples include avoiding black cats or knocking on wood for luck.
Definition:
A belief or practice based on irrational fear of the unknown or magic, often leading to rituals.
Synonyms:
myth, folklore, old wives' tale, irrational belief
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
rationality, science
Common Collocations:
blind superstition, common superstition, break a superstition, believe in superstition
Derivatives:
superstitious, superstitiously
Usage Tips:
Use "superstition" to describe irrational beliefs, often tied to luck or supernatural forces; avoid conflating with religion or tradition.
Common Phrases:
break a superstition, old superstitions die hard, 迷信 (Chinese equivalent)
Etymology:
From Latin "superstitio," meaning excessive fear of the gods or irrational religious belief; later generalized to irrational practices.
Examples:
- 1. Breaking a mirror is a common superstition about bad luck.
- 2. Many athletes follow superstitions like wearing lucky socks before games.
- 3. She laughed at the old superstition about black cats crossing your path.
- 4. Some cultures have superstitions tied to numbers, like avoiding the number 13.