Being superstitious means having a belief or practice that is based on fear of the unknown, trust in magic or chance, or a false conception of causation. Superstitions are often considered irrational beliefs that are at odds with scientific knowledge of the world. They are beliefs that are not based on fact and are often attributed to fate or magic. Superstitions can be seen as a deviation of religious feeling and of the practices this feeling imposes. Examples of superstitions include avoiding walking under ladders, spilling salt, or passing black cats, all because of the belief that they will bring bad luck. People who are superstitious may also knock on wood or refuse to open an umbrella indoors, or believe that their team will win if they wear their lucky socks.