Basic Details
Word: Superstition
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A belief that certain events or actions can bring good or bad luck, often without scientific reasons.
Synonyms: Folklore, myth, belief
Antonyms: Rationality, reason, logic
Idioms and Phrases
- Break a leg: A saying used to wish someone good luck, especially in performance. Example: "Before she went on stage, her friends told her to break a leg!"
- Knock on wood: A phrase used to avoid bad luck after mentioning good fortune. Example: "I hope I do well in the exam; knock on wood!"
Usage Examples
Example 1: Many people have superstitions about black cats crossing their path, believing it brings bad luck.
Example 2: She avoided walking under ladders because of her strong superstition regarding that practice.
Example 3: During the festival, he shared stories of local superstitions passed down through generations.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the term "superstition" comes from the Latin word "superstitio," which means "to stand over"? This reflects how these beliefs often "hover over" people's minds, influencing their actions and decisions.
Famous Quote
"Superstition is to religion what astrology is to astronomy; the mad daughter of a wise mother." Victor Hugo
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "superstition" mean?
a) A scientific belief
b) A belief in luck without scientific proof
c) A type of game
d) A form of art
Answer: b) A belief in luck without scientific proof
2. Which of these is a synonym of "superstition"?
a) Myth
b) Science
c) Truth
d) Logic
Answer: a) Myth
3. What is an antonym of "superstition"?
a) Folklore
b) Rationality
c) Belief
d) Tradition
Answer: b) Rationality
4. Which sentence uses "superstition" correctly?
a) She has no superstition about Friday the 13th and thinks it is just another day.
b) The superstition enjoyed a lovely meal last night.
c) He played the superstition and won the game.
d) The superstition elected a new leader for the team.
Answer: a) She has no superstition about Friday the 13th and thinks it is just another day.
5. Which idiom reflects a superstition?
a) Break a leg
b) Hit the books
c) Get the ball rolling
d) Make a mountain out of a molehill
Answer: a) Break a leg
