Reading Theme:
Superstitious: Definition, Examples & Usage Guide (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：believing in superstitions (superstitious)
superstitious
/ˌsuːpərˈstɪʃəs/
adj.
Believing in things like lucky numbers, bad signs from animals, or actions without any real proof.
believing in superstitions
➕
/bɪˈliːvɪŋ ɪn ˌsuːpərˈstɪʃənz/
adj.
Having a belief in supernatural causality, such as that specific actions, objects, or events can influence good or bad luck, without any rational evidence.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'superstitio' (super- + stare 'stand') meaning 'standing above' in awe.
💡 Mnemonic
'Super' (above) + 'stit' (stand) = standing above logic, believing in luck without proof.
📖 Example
My grandma is quite superstitious; she believes that breaking a mirror brings seven years of bad luck.
My grandma is quite superstitious; she believes that breaking a mirror brings seven years of bad luck.
🔗 Collocations
superstitious belief – A belief that contradicts reason or science, often related to luck.
superstitious ritual – A habitual action performed to avoid bad luck or bring good luck.
superstitious person – Someone who believes in superstitions.
🔄 Synonyms
irrational (adj.) – Not based on reason or logic.
credulous (adj.) – Willing to believe things easily, often without evidence.
supernatural-believing (adj.) – Having faith in forces beyond the natural world.
🚫 Antonyms
🌱 Derivatives
superstition (n.) – A belief or practice resulting from ignorance, fear of the unknown, or trust in magic.
superstitiously (adv.) – In a manner that shows belief in superstitions.
📖 Cultural Story
The word 'superstitious' originates from Latin 'superstitio', originally describing excessive fear of the gods. It evolved to mean irrational beliefs not based on reason.
Meaning 2：based on superstition (superstitious)
superstitious
/ˌsuːpərˈstɪʃəs/
adj.
A behavior or tradition that happens because people believe in superstitions.
based on superstition
➕
/beɪst ɒn ˌsuːpərˈstɪʃən/
adj.
Describing a behavior, custom, or tradition that originates from superstitious beliefs, often passed down through generations despite lacking rational foundation.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
Throwing rice at weddings is an old, superstitious custom meant to wish the couple fertility and prosperity.
Throwing rice at weddings is an old, superstitious custom meant to wish the couple fertility and prosperity.
🔗 Collocations
superstitious custom – A tradition rooted in superstition, like avoiding black cats.
superstitious practice – An action performed due to superstitious belief.
superstitious tradition – A long-established custom based on superstition.
🔄 Synonyms
irrational (adj.) – Not logical or reasonable; contrary to reason.
fear-based (adj.) – Motivated by fear rather than evidence.
traditional (adj.) – Following long-established customs, sometimes without understanding their origin.
🚫 Antonyms
rational (adj.) – Based on clear thought and reason.
scientific (adj.) – Based on systematic observation and evidence.
logical (adj.) – Following the principles of sound reasoning.
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