Idiom B1

Break a leg

Good luck

Meaning

Break a leg — Used to wish someone good luck, especially before a performance or important event. Despite its violent image, 'break a leg' is entirely positive.

Origin & History

The phrase most likely comes from the theatre world of the early 20th century. Actors considered it bad luck to wish someone 'good luck' directly, so they said the opposite. Another theory links it to the curtain leg — a side panel on stage — which actors would cross if they performed well enough to take a bow.

Example Sentences

SentenceContext
You have your driving test tomorrow? Break a leg!Spoken encouragement before a test
She texted her friend 'break a leg' before the audition.Written informal message
The director told every cast member to break a leg before the curtain rose.Theatre context

How to Use It

Informal. Use with friends, colleagues, or anyone in a casual setting. Avoid in formal written communication.

Common Mistakes

Mistakes to Avoid

Break a leg in your job interview! I hope you don't actually hurt yourself.

Break a leg in your job interview! — No explanation needed; native speakers understand it is not literal.

I will break a leg at the concert tonight.

I'm going to do my best at the concert tonight. — 'Break a leg' is said TO someone, not about yourself.

Similar Idioms

Knock 'em deadGood luckFingers crossed All Idioms →

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does "Break a leg" mean?
"Break a leg" means good luck. Used to wish someone good luck, especially before a performance or important event. Despite its violent image, 'break a leg' is entirely positive.
Where does the idiom "Break a leg" come from?
The phrase most likely comes from the theatre world of the early 20th century. Actors considered it bad luck to wish someone 'good luck' directly, so they said the opposite. Another theory links it to the curtain leg — a side panel on stage — which actors would cross if they performed well enough to take a bow.
Can you give an example of "Break a leg" in a sentence?
Here is an example: "You have your driving test tomorrow? Break a leg!" — used when spoken encouragement before a test.
Is "Break a leg" formal or informal?
Informal. Use with friends, colleagues, or anyone in a casual setting. Avoid in formal written communication.
What CEFR level is "Break a leg"?
This idiom is typically taught at B1 level. It is a intermediate expression that appears in a wide range of spoken and written English contexts.
What are common mistakes with "Break a leg"?
The most common mistake is getting the articles wrong. Always use the fixed form of the idiom without changing the words. For example: Break a leg in your job interview! — No explanation needed; native speakers understand it is not literal.
What idioms are similar to "Break a leg"?
Similar idioms include: Knock 'em dead, Good luck, Fingers crossed. These share the same general meaning but may differ slightly in tone or context.
How do I practise idioms like "Break a leg"?
LexFizz's Flip Tiles and Flash Cards exercises are great for practising English idioms. Try to write your own example sentences using the idiom in context, and listen for it in films, podcasts, and conversations.
Can "Break a leg" be used in writing?
Yes, but it depends on the register. Informal. Use with friends, colleagues, or anyone in a casual setting. Avoid in formal written communication. Idioms generally work best in spoken English or informal writing; avoid them in formal academic or professional documents unless you are sure of your audience.
Does "Break a leg" have the same meaning in British and American English?
Yes, "Break a leg" is understood in both British and American English with the same meaning: good luck. Some idioms vary between dialects, but this one is widely recognised in all major varieties of English.