“Black magic” refers to the use of supernatural powers for evil or self - serving purposes. Here are some synonyms and their characteristics:
1. Witchcraft
- Meaning: “Witchcraft” generally implies the practice of magic, often associated with witches. It can involve spells, potions, and other magical workings. For example, “The villagers accused her of practicing witchcraft.” It has a long - standing association with the use of magic for various purposes, including those that might be considered harmful or malevolent, similar to black magic.
2. Sorcery
- Meaning: “Sorcery” emphasizes the use of magic through supernatural means. It often implies a more deliberate and sometimes malevolent use of magical powers. For example, “The sorcerer was known for his dark sorcery that brought misfortune to many.” It is closely related to black magic as it also involves the use of powerful and often feared magical abilities.
3. Dark Arts
- Meaning: “Dark Arts” is a term that encompasses various forms of magic that are considered immoral or harmful. It is a more general term and is often used in fictional contexts such as in the Harry Potter series. For example, “He was studying the Dark Arts against the school's rules.” This term emphasizes the negative and often secretive nature of the magic, much like black magic.
4. Necromancy
- Meaning: “Necromancy” specifically refers to the practice of communicating with the dead or using the spirits of the dead for magical purposes. It is usually seen as a dark and somewhat taboo form of magic. For example, “The necromancer was feared for his ability to raise the dead through his black magic - like necromancy.” It is a subset of practices that are often associated with the darker side of magic.
5. Demonology
- Meaning: “Demonology” is the study and invocation of demons to achieve certain ends through magic. It is an extremely dark and often feared area of magical practice. For example, “His dabbling in demonology was considered a form of black magic by the religious community.” It involves the use of supernatural and malevolent entities to gain power or knowledge, similar to how black magic is sometimes thought to involve evil forces.