fingers crossed

/ˈfɪŋɡɚz ˈkrɒst/
phrase★Intermediate◆idiom
◆ What It Really Means
Expressing hope or optimism about an uncertain situation, often with a sense of superstition or luck.
Literal Meaning
The physical act of crossing one's fingers together.
Literal Breakdown
fingersthe digits on the hand+crossedinterlaced or positioned in an 'X' shape
◇ Mental Image
The mental image of someone crossing their fingers, often with a hopeful or nervous expression, as if trying to influence luck.
◈ When to Use
A student might say 'fingers crossed' before an important exam, hoping to pass but acknowledging that the outcome is uncertain.
◉ Cultural Note
The phrase is rooted in the superstition that crossing one's fingers can bring good luck or ward off bad fortune. It is commonly used in English-speaking cultures and has equivalents in many other languages.
informal

To hope for a favorable outcome while acknowledging uncertainty or lack of control over the situation.

I have an important job interview tomorrow, so fingers crossed!

I'm taking a big exam next week, fingers crossed I pass!

💡

This phrase is often used to express optimism or nervous anticipation about an uncertain event.

Collocations

keep your fingers crossedto maintain hope for a positive outcomehave your fingers crossedto be hopeful about something

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

touch woodidiom
to avoid jinxing a positive situation by touching wood for luck
knock on woodidiom
to avoid tempting fate by knocking on wood for luck

💡Pro Tip

Cultural Context

This phrase is widely understood in English-speaking countries and is often used in casual conversation.

⚡Gold Rule

Usage

Use 'fingers crossed' when you want to express hope for a positive outcome but acknowledge that the result is uncertain.

📖Word Origin

The phrase originates from the superstition that crossing one's fingers brings good luck. It dates back to at least the 19th century.

📝Usage Notes

This idiom is commonly used in informal contexts to express hope or optimism about an uncertain situation. It can be used both literally (while physically crossing fingers) or metaphorically.

Word Breakdown

fingers
the digits on the hand
root
+
crossed
interlaced or positioned in an 'X' shape
root
English Dictionary