noun
superstitious act for good luck; lucky charm behavior
Refers to doing something superstitious in hopes of bringing good luck, such as wearing lucky colors or avoiding unlucky words. Often used in the phrase ゲン担ぎをする.
試合の前はいつもゲン担ぎに同じ靴下を履く。
Before a match, I always wear the same socks as a good-luck superstition.
彼はゲン担ぎで、試験の日は必ずカツ丼を食べる。
He is superstitious about luck, so he always eats katsudon on exam day.
縁起担ぎ is a broader term for doing something to bring good luck or avoid bad luck, often based on traditional beliefs. ゲン担ぎ is more casual and personal, focusing on small superstitious habits.
迷信 means 'superstition' in general, often with a negative connotation of irrational belief. ゲン担ぎ is a lighter, more playful term for personal lucky rituals.
From 験 (げん, 'luck' or 'omen') + 担ぎ (かつぎ, 'carrying' or 'bearing'), literally 'carrying luck'. The exact origin is uncertain, but it likely arose from the idea of carrying or bearing a good omen.