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A superstitious expression used to wish someone good luck, especially before a performance.
Before going on stage, the director told the actors to break a leg.
The director used the idiom to wish the actors success.
She whispered 'break a leg' to her friend before the speech.
The friend was about to give a speech, so she wished her luck.
This phrase is commonly used in theater and performing arts but has spread to other contexts.
Use this phrase informally when wishing someone success before a performance, audition, or important event. It’s a lighthearted way to show support.
Never take this phrase literally. It does not mean to physically harm someone’s leg.
The origin is unclear, but it likely stems from the idea that saying 'good luck' might jinx the performance. The phrase may also relate to the superstition that wishing someone good luck directly could bring bad luck. It became popular in the theater community during the 20th century.
This idiom is almost always used in a positive, encouraging context. It is rarely used in formal settings and is most common among performers, actors, and artists. Avoid using it in contexts where literal harm could be implied.