[Idiom] BREAK A LEG. - Discover How Wishing Luck Became Breaking Legs
Break a leg.
/breɪk ə lɛɡ/
Wish someone good luck.
Break a leg" is an idiom commonly used in theatre to wish performers good luck in a way that avoids saying "good luck" directly, which is traditionally considered bad luck. The origin of this phrase is somewhat unclear, but it's believed to stem from the superstition that wishing someone good luck would actually bring them bad luck. Thus, saying "break a leg" might trick any lurking spirits into delivering good fortune instead. Over the years, this phrase has transcended the bounds of the theater and is now used in various contexts where people wish others success in an endeavored activity without invoking the phrase "good luck.
Example Sentences
Good luck in your presentation, just go out there and break a leg!
Wishing someone good luck in a positive, encouraging way for their upcoming presentation.
I heard you have a big audition tomorrow. Break a leg!
Expressing a hope for success in someone's audition the following day.
The entire cast was anxious before the curtain rose, but the director just smiled and said, "Break a leg everyone!"
Encouraging the cast to perform well and have good luck as they prepare to start the show.