superstition

Everyday

1. A superstition is a belief that some action or object brings good or bad luck, even though there is no real reason or proof for it. tree →
2. Superstition is believing in such things. tree →

In the lessons

In lessons about truth, myths and critical thinking, pupils learn to tell superstition from science: there is no evidence that black cats, walking under ladders or the number 13 bring bad luck, or that crossing your fingers brings good luck. Many superstitions are old customs and can be fun, but they are not facts. Phrases: «an old superstition», «it's just a superstition». Related: Friday the 13th, «touch wood», «knock on wood».

Examples

• It's a superstition that black cats bring bad luck. tree →
• Some people think breaking a mirror gives seven years of bad luck — that's a superstition. tree →
• My grandma has lots of old superstitions. tree →
• Footballers often have superstitions, like wearing lucky socks. tree →
• Science tests ideas; superstition doesn't. tree →
• Is it true or just a superstition? tree →
• Many hotels have no room 13 because of superstition. tree →
• Superstition made her alternately shudder with cold or burn with the heat of fever. tree →

Note

Adjective: superstitious («a superstitious person»). Countable for each belief, uncountable for the habit of believing. A superstition is not a lie on purpose; it is a belief without evidence. Walking under ladders really can be unsafe — something could fall — but not because of luck.

In Jewish tradition

Interpretation: The Torah forbids practices like divination and sorcery. Later scholars argued over which customs were wise tradition and which were mere superstition. In the primary lessons: In lessons about truth, myths and critical thinking, pupils learn to tell superstition from science: there is no evidence that black cats, walking under ladders or the number 13 bring bad luck, or that crossing your fingers brings good luck. Many superstitions are old customs and can be fun, but they are not facts. Phrases: «an old superstition», «it's just a superstition». Related: Friday the 13th, «touch wood», «knock on wood».

Note

Adjective: superstitious («a superstitious person»). Countable for each belief, uncountable for the habit of believing. A superstition is not a lie on purpose; it is a belief without evidence. Walking under ladders really can be unsafe — something could fall — but not because of luck.