good luck

/ɡʊd lʌk/
phrase★Beginner
◆ What It Really Means
Expressing hope for someone's success or positive outcomes.
Literal Meaning
The combination of positive fortune or chance.
Literal Breakdown
goodpositive+luckfortune or chance
◇ Mental Image
A mental picture of favorable circumstances or success.
◈ When to Use
Before a friend's important presentation, you say, 'Good luck!' to express your hope that they will do well.
◉ Cultural Note
The phrase is widely used in English-speaking cultures as a polite and supportive expression of well-wishes.
informal

A phrase used to express hope that someone will succeed or have positive outcomes in a situation.

I have an important exam tomorrow. Wish me good luck!

I hope I pass the exam.

Good luck with your job interview!

I hope you get the job.

💡

This phrase is commonly used in informal and casual contexts to express well-wishes.

Collocations

good luck withUsed to express well-wishes for a specific task or situation.wish someone good luckTo express hope that someone will succeed.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

break a legidiom
An idiom used to wish someone good luck, especially in performance contexts.
knock on woodidiom
A superstitious phrase used to avoid jinxing good luck.

💡Pro Tip

Cultural Sensitivity

In some cultures, saying 'good luck' directly might be considered inappropriate, especially in high-stakes situations. Adjust your language accordingly.

⚡Gold Rule

Appropriate Context

Use 'good luck' in informal and supportive contexts, such as before exams, interviews, or performances.

📖Word Origin

The phrase combines 'good' (positive) and 'luck' (fortune or chance), reflecting the desire for favorable outcomes.

📝Usage Notes

This phrase is versatile and can be used in various contexts, from personal achievements to professional endeavors.

Word Breakdown

good
positive or favorable
adjective
+
luck
fortune or chance
noun
English Dictionary