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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.

superstition

/ˌsuː.pɚˈstɪʃ.ən/ /ˌsuː.pəˈstɪʃ.ən/

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.

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