keep fingers crossed

/kiːp ˈfɪŋɡərz ˈkrɒst/
phraseIntermediate hope for good luckidiom
What It Really Means
To hope for good luck or a positive outcome.
Literal Meaning
To hold one's fingers in a crossed position.
Literal Breakdown
keepto maintain+fingersdigits on the hand+crossedintersected or placed in an 'X' shape
Mental Image
The mental image of someone holding their fingers in a crossed position, symbolizing a wish for good luck.
When to Use
A person might say 'I'm keeping my fingers crossed for good weather on my trip' when they are hoping for favorable weather conditions.
Cultural Note
This phrase is rooted in the superstition that crossing one's fingers can bring good luck or ward off evil. It is commonly used in English-speaking cultures and is often accompanied by the literal action of crossing one's fingers.
informal

To hope for a positive outcome or good luck in a situation.

She kept her fingers crossed that she would pass the exam.

She hoped she would pass the exam.

We're keeping our fingers crossed that the project will be successful.

We're hoping the project will be successful.

💡

This phrase is often used when someone is waiting for news or an event and wants things to go well.

Related Phrases

cross one's fingersidiom
To hope for good luck
touch woodidiom
To hope for continued good luck

💡Pro Tip

Usage Tip

This phrase is often used when discussing future events or outcomes that are uncertain.

Gold Rule

Rule

Use this phrase to express hope for a positive outcome in an informal context.

📖Word Origin

The phrase originates from the superstition that crossing one's fingers brings good luck. It is believed to have started in medieval Europe, where crossed fingers were thought to ward off evil spirits.

📝Usage Notes

This phrase is commonly used in informal contexts and is often accompanied by the literal action of crossing one's fingers.

Word Breakdown

keep
to maintain or continue
root
+
fingers
digits on the hand
root
+
crossed
intersected or placed in an 'X' shape
root
English Dictionary