black art
Definition
Noun: - Sorcery or witchcraft: "Black art" refers to the practice of magic that is believed to use evil spirits or occult forces to achieve supernatural and often harmful effects. It is associated with malevolent purposes.
Usage
The term "black art" is used to describe a type of magic considered dark, evil, or involving the invocation of harmful supernatural forces. It is often contrasted with benevolent or "white" magic. - The ancient tome was said to contain secrets of the black art. - He was accused of practicing the black art to curse his enemies.
Advanced Usage
- "The black arts": This plural form is commonly used to refer generally to the practices of witchcraft or sorcery, especially those perceived as dark or evil.
- The villagers lived in fear of the black arts.
- Used metaphorically to describe a complex, mysterious, or morally dubious skill in a non-magical context.
- To many, the inner workings of high finance seemed like a black art.
Variants and Related Words
- Black magic (n): A direct synonym for "black art," specifically meaning magic used for evil purposes.
- The cult was rumored to perform rituals involving black magic.
- Necromancy (n): A specific form of black art involving communication with the dead.
- Sorcery (n): The use of magic, especially evil magic.
- Witchcraft (n): The practice of magical skills and abilities.
Synonyms
- Dark magic: Magic associated with evil or harmful intent.
- The occult: Matters involving supernatural or magical phenomena, often with a mysterious or hidden nature.
Related Phrases
- Practice the black art: To engage in sorcery or dark magic.
- The legend claimed the hermit practiced the black art in the forest.
Related Idioms
- A black art: Used to describe any skill or activity that is perceived as mysterious, complex, and difficult for outsiders to understand.
- For most people, computer programming is a black art.
Noun
-
the belief in magical spells that harness occult forces or evil spirits to produce unnatural effects in the world
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