mishap; misfortune; calamity; disaster
Refers to an unfortunate event or disaster. Often used in literary or formal contexts. The kanji 禍事 is especially associated with this meaning.
ominous word; ill-omened word
Only when written 禍言
A word that brings bad luck or is considered a bad omen. This sense is rare and specifically associated with the kanji 禍言.
That year's calamity was deeply etched in people's memories.
When misfortunes continue, one must stay vigilant.
In old texts, speaking ominous words was avoided.
Standard kanji spelling for the 'mishap/calamity' sense. The reading まがごと is the modern standard.
Specifically used for the 'ominous word' sense. Rare overall.
Formed from まが “calamity, evil” and こと, written 事 for a calamitous event and 言 for an ominous utterance. Voicing in the compound produces まがごと.