World News for Students of English

13-06-2025 07:00

Friday the 13th is a date that many people around the world connect with bad luck.

This idea comes from a superstition, a belief that something can bring good or bad luck even if there is no proof. People have long considered both the number 13 and the day Friday unlucky. The number 12 is often viewed as complete or balanced, so 13 feels unusual or unlucky in comparison. That is why some buildings skip the 13th floor, and people avoid making big plans on that date.

In history, Friday was linked with sad or serious events, such as the crucifixion of Jesus. One famous event that may have contributed to the fear was the arrest of many members of the Knights Templar on Friday, October 13, 1307. Over time, the date became more well-known through books, scary stories, and horror movies. Today, some people are afraid of the date, a fear known as paraskevidekatriaphobia. But there is no proof it brings bad luck, many people just treat it like any other day.

Difficult words: superstition (a belief not based on facts or science), crucifixion (killing someone by nailing them to a cross).

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