[Lexicog] Blessing, benediction in English and other languages

[Fritz Goerling]

Another (im)possible collocation is "mixed blessing," but not "mixed
benediction"
In the more Catholic part of Germany (Bavaria), the male first name Benedikt
occurs, like Benedetto in Italy.

Fritz Goerling



  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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