What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
maleficio
Example
The witch cast a maleficio on the village, causing crops to fail and people to fall ill. [maleficio: noun]
Example
He was accused of using maleficio to cause his neighbor's business to fail. [maleficio: noun]
jinx
Example
Don't say that, you'll jinx it! [jinx: verb]
Example
Ever since he started wearing that shirt, he's been a jinx on the team. [jinx: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Jinx is more commonly used than maleficio in everyday language, especially in English-speaking countries. Maleficio is less common and more formal, often used in the context of witchcraft or magic.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between maleficio and jinx?
Maleficio is a more formal term and less commonly used in everyday language, while jinx is more informal and commonly used in casual conversation.