[Lexicog] Blessing, benediction in English and other languages

[Margaret Marks]

Blessing is more widely used. There is no verb form for benediction.

Benediction is always Christian, blessing can be but isn't always.

If someone sneezes, in BE, you can say 'Bless you!'

You can say (to quote the LDCE) 'The dishwasher has been a real blessing!', 
but not 'a benediction'.

Not specifically Christian: bless my soul! a blessing in disguise / count 
your blessings

Margaret (without dishwasher)
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