Basic Details
Word: Superstitions
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: Beliefs or practices that are based on fear or ignorance, often involving the idea that certain actions or events can bring good or bad luck.
Synonyms: Myths, beliefs, folklore
Antonyms: Rationality, reason
Idioms and Phrases
- Break a leg: A phrase used to wish someone good luck, especially in performances. Example: "Before her big dance recital, her friends told her to break a leg!"
- Sawing off the branch you're sitting on: To take an action that will lead to your own harm or downfall. Example: "If you don't revise for your exams, you are sawing off the branch you're sitting on."
Usage Examples
Example 1: Many people believe in various superstitions, such as that walking under a ladder brings bad luck.
Example 2: In some cultures, it is considered a superstition to avoid breaking a mirror, as it is thought to bring seven years of misfortune.
Example 3: Superstitions often vary from country to country, with each culture having unique beliefs about luck and fate.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the fear of the number 13 is so common that it has a special name? It's called "triskaidekaphobia," and many buildings even skip the 13th floor due to this superstition!
Famous Quote
"Superstition is the religion of feeble minds." — Edmund Burke
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "superstitions" mean?
a) Scientific facts
b) Beliefs about luck or bad luck
c) Modern inventions
d) Traditional foods
Answer: b) Beliefs about luck or bad luck
2. Which of these is a synonym of "superstitions"?
a) Facts
b) Myths
c) Animals
d) Numbers
Answer: b) Myths
3. What is the opposite of "superstitions"?
a) Beliefs
b) Rationality
c) Folklore
d) Traditions
Answer: b) Rationality
4. Which sentence uses "superstitions" correctly?
a) Superstitions are based on scientific evidence.
b) Many superstitions revolve around numbers, like 7 or 13.
c) Superstitions are always true and can be proven.
d) Superstitions usually involve food preparation.
Answer: b) Many superstitions revolve around numbers, like 7 or 13.
5. Which idiom means wishing good luck?
a) To break a leg
b) To sawing off the branch you're sitting on
c) To jump the gun
d) To hit the nail on the head
Answer: a) To break a leg
