Superstition (en. Superstition)

/sy.pɛʁ.sti.sjɔ̃/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench

noun

Belief in supernatural influences or unexplained events.

The superstition of not walking under a ladder is very widespread.

La superstition de ne pas passer sous une échelle est très répandue.

Practice or ritual based on these beliefs.

Superstitions can influence people's behavior.

Les superstitions peuvent influencer le comportement des gens.

Belief that future events can be altered by acts or rituals.

He has a multitude of superstitions that he observes before a match.

Il a une multitude de superstitions qu'il respecte avant un match.

From Latin 'superstitio', meaning 'fear or respect for the gods'.

to have a superstition

To be subject to an irrational belief.

avoir une superstition

to make a wish

To ask for a favor from a supernatural force in exchange for adherence to superstition.

faire un vœu

to believe in bad omens

To be afraid of signs considered to be harmful.

croire aux mauvais présages

belief

Idea or feeling rooted in faith.

croyance

myth

Traditional story that explains phenomena or beliefs.

mythe

ritual

Repeated practice in a religious or symbolic context.

rituel

Irrational belief.

He is so superstitious that he can't even open an umbrella indoors.

Il est si superstitieux qu'il ne peut même pas ouvrir un parapluie à l'intérieur.

Fear of spirits.

His superstition drives him to never walk alone at night.

Sa superstition le pousse à ne jamais marcher seul la nuit.