Definition

Noun: * An irrational belief arising from ignorance or fear. A superstitious notion is an idea or belief that is not based on reason or scientific knowledge, but rather on cultural tradition, fear of the unknown, or a mistaken understanding of cause and effect.

Usage

This term is used to describe a specific, often culturally transmitted, belief that attributes events to supernatural influences, luck, or magic rather than natural processes. It is a formal or academic way to label such a belief.

Examples

• The superstitious notion that breaking a mirror brings seven years of bad luck is still common.
• Many ancient cultures had the superstitious notion that an eclipse was a sign of a god's anger.
• He dismissed the idea as a mere superstitious notion with no basis in fact.

Advanced Usage

• In anthropological context: Anthropologists study how superstitious notions function within a society's belief system and cultural practices.
• As a critical term: The phrase is often used to contrast rational, evidence-based thinking with irrational, traditional beliefs. For example: "We must overcome superstitious notions to advance scientific understanding."

Variants and Related Words

• Superstition (n): The broader category or practice of holding superstitious beliefs. (e.g., "She is prone to superstition.")
• Superstitious (adj): Describing a person or practice that is influenced by superstition. (e.g., "He is very superstitious about black cats.")
• Old wives' tale (n): A superstitious notion or piece of folklore, often passed down orally and typically dismissed as unscientific.

Synonyms

• Superstition
• Irrational belief
• Fallacy
• Myth (in the context of a widely held but false belief)

Antonyms

• Scientific fact
• Rational belief
• Empirical knowledge

Related Phrases

• To harbor a superstitious notion: To hold or believe in such an idea.
  • Despite his education, he harbored a superstitious notion about the number 13.
• To be based on a superstitious notion: To have its foundation in such a belief.
  • The ritual was based on a superstitious notion about warding off evil spirits.

Noun

1. an irrational belief arising from ignorance or fear