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crepi il lupo
/ˈkre.pi il ˈlu.po/◆idiom
good luck
— Oggi ho un esame importante. — Crepi il lupo!
— I have an important exam today. — Good luck!
informal
A traditional Italian response to 'in bocca al lupo!' (good luck), wishing ill fortune upon the wolf instead of directly wishing luck to the person.
— In bocca al lupo! — Crepi il lupo!
— Break a leg! — Good luck!
— Domani ho un colloquio di lavoro. — Crepi il lupo!
— I have a job interview tomorrow. — Good luck!
The phrase is a humorous way to avoid directly saying 'good luck' (which was historically considered bad luck in Italian theater). The response 'crepi il lupo' literally means 'may the wolf die,' but it is used idiomatically to mean 'good luck' in response to 'in bocca al lupo!'
Synonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Cultural Context
In Italy, directly wishing someone 'good luck' is considered bad luck in certain contexts (e.g., theater). Instead, people use 'in bocca al lupo' and respond with 'crepi il lupo.' This is a cultural quirk worth remembering when interacting with Italians.
Gold Rule
Response to 'In bocca al lupo!'
Always respond to 'in bocca al lupo' with 'crepi il lupo.' It is the culturally appropriate reply in Italian.
Word Origin
The phrase originates from Italian theater superstition, where saying 'good luck' directly was considered bad luck. 'In bocca al lupo' ('into the wolf's mouth') was a euphemism for 'good luck.' The response 'crepi il lupo' ('may the wolf die') humorously inverts the wish, turning it into a blessing.
Usage Notes
This idiom is used in informal contexts, often among friends or colleagues. It is a playful way to respond to someone wishing you luck. The phrase is deeply rooted in Italian culture and is not commonly used in other languages.
Word Breakdown
crepi
may [it] die (3rd person singular subjunctive of 'crepare' — to die)
verbil
the
articlelupo
wolf
nounDizionario Italiano-Inglese