jinxes

Jinxes are beliefs that certain words, actions, or events can bring bad luck to a person, group, or situation. A jinx is typically viewed as a temporary misfortune rather than a fixed curse, and many variations exist across cultures. Common features include the idea that communication, coincidence, or a specific trigger can set off a streak of bad luck.

Etymology and history of the term are uncertain. The modern English word “jinx” appeared in the early 20th century in American slang. It may be linked to older notions of charms or spells, or to the mythological Jynx, a name associated with trickery in various folklores, but precise origins are unclear. The concept was popularized in everyday speech and then extended into both informal rituals and popular culture.

Social practices surrounding jinxes often involve a ritual or rule to “break” or avoid the jinx. A well-known example is when two people say the same word or sentence at the same time; the person who notices might declare a jinx, sometimes requiring the other person to remain silent or to perform a playful obligation. More broadly, people may try to avoid actions believed to invite a jinx after a misfortune, or to countersact it with humor, reassurance, or a change of activity.

Relation to other concepts: Jinxes are generally considered informal, interpersonal superstitions. They differ from curses or hexes in that they are not attributed to maleficent magical intent and are usually thought to be temporary or self-limiting. Scientific explanations emphasize chance, coincidence, and cognitive biases rather than any real, external force.

In popular culture, the term and its variants appear in literature, film, and media, and the name Jinx is used for fictional characters in comics and video games, reflecting the broader association with misfortune or trickery.