good luck
Fortune wishes
Use `good luck` whenever someone is about to face a challenge, big or small.
In 15 Seconds
- A friendly way to wish someone success in a future task.
- Works in both professional and casual settings perfectly.
- Say it before an event, never after it ends.
Meaning
You say this to wish someone success or a positive outcome before they do something difficult or exciting. It is like sending a little bit of magic their way.
Key Examples
3 of 6A friend going for a job interview
Good luck with your interview today!
Good luck with your interview today!
A colleague giving a presentation
Good luck! You're going to be great.
Good luck! You're going to be great.
Texting a friend before a date
Good luck tonight! Have fun! 🍀
Good luck tonight! Have fun!
Cultural Background
The phrase reflects a Western cultural belief in 'luck' as a force that can be influenced by well-wishes. While its exact origin is ancient, it became a staple of English social etiquette to reduce anxiety in others. Interestingly, in the performing arts, it is often replaced by 'break a leg' due to an old superstition that wishing for good luck actually attracts bad luck.
The Theater Rule
If you are talking to an actor, say `break a leg` instead of `good luck`. It sounds mean, but it's actually the luckiest thing you can say!
Add a Smile
Because `good luck` can be used sarcastically, always pair it with a warm smile or a thumbs-up to show you are being sincere.
In 15 Seconds
- A friendly way to wish someone success in a future task.
- Works in both professional and casual settings perfectly.
- Say it before an event, never after it ends.
What It Means
Good luck is the ultimate positive vibe in English. It means you hope things go well for the other person. You are wishing them a favorable outcome. It is simple, kind, and very common. Think of it as a verbal high-five before a big moment.
How To Use It
You usually say it right before someone starts a task. You can say it on its own. You can also say Good luck with followed by a specific event. For example, Good luck with your exam! It works as a greeting or a goodbye. It is the perfect way to end a conversation when someone is leaving for an appointment.
When To Use It
Use it for big life events like job interviews or weddings. Use it for small things like a friend playing a video game. It is great for sports, tests, or even a first date. If there is a chance of failure, good luck is your best friend. It shows you are supportive and paying attention.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use it after the event is finished. That would be awkward! Also, be careful with your tone. If you say it with a flat voice during an argument, it can sound sarcastic. Like saying, "Yeah, good luck with that attitude." In theater, some people think it is bad luck. They say break a leg instead. Don't worry, most people won't mind!
Cultural Background
Luck is a huge part of English-speaking cultures. We have many superstitions about it. Good luck is the polite, standard way to acknowledge these moments. It has been used for centuries. It bridges the gap between being formal and being friendly. It is the safe choice for almost any situation.
Common Variations
You might hear Best of luck for something more serious. Friends often say Good luck, man or Good luck, lady. If you want to be very casual, just say Luck! or Fingers crossed. In the UK, you might hear All the best. They all carry the same warm energy.
Usage Notes
The phrase is incredibly versatile. Just remember that the preposition `with` is your best friend when specifying an activity. Avoid using it sarcastically unless you are joking with a very close friend.
The Theater Rule
If you are talking to an actor, say `break a leg` instead of `good luck`. It sounds mean, but it's actually the luckiest thing you can say!
Add a Smile
Because `good luck` can be used sarcastically, always pair it with a warm smile or a thumbs-up to show you are being sincere.
Don't be late
Only say this before the event starts. Saying it after someone fails or finishes sounds like you weren't listening!
Examples
6Good luck with your interview today!
Good luck with your interview today!
Using 'with' specifies the event.
Good luck! You're going to be great.
Good luck! You're going to be great.
Adding a compliment boosts their confidence.
Good luck tonight! Have fun! 🍀
Good luck tonight! Have fun!
Commonly paired with the clover emoji.
You're going to climb that wall? Good luck with that.
You're going to climb that wall? Good luck with that.
Tone of voice makes this sound like 'you are crazy'.
Good luck on your first day, sweetie!
Good luck on your first day, sweetie!
Shows emotional support and care.
Safe travels and good luck on your move!
Safe travels and good luck on your move!
Often combined with other well-wishes.
Test Yourself
Choose the correct preposition to follow the phrase.
Good luck ___ your driving test tomorrow!
We typically use `good luck with` or `good luck on` for specific events like tests or projects.
Identify the best time to say this phrase.
Your friend just finished their exam. You should say: ___
You cannot say `good luck` after the event is over; you must congratulate them instead.
🎉 Score: /2
Visual Learning Aids
Formality of 'Good Luck'
Used with close friends or family.
Luck, buddy!
The standard way to say it to anyone.
Good luck!
Used in professional or serious letters.
I wish you the best of luck.
When to say Good Luck
Before a Test
Good luck on the exam!
Sports Game
Good luck in the match!
Job Interview
Good luck with the hiring manager!
A First Date
Good luck tonight!
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsIt is neutral! You can use it with your boss or your best friend without any issues.
Yes, but only with very close friends. It is very casual, like saying Hey instead of Hello.
Best of luck is slightly more formal and often used for bigger life changes, like moving to a new city.
Simply say Thank you! or Thanks, I'll need it! if you are feeling a bit nervous.
Absolutely. It is a very common way to end a professional email, such as Good luck with the project.
Only if your tone is sarcastic. If someone says they will do something impossible and you say Good luck with that while rolling your eyes, it's rude.
It is a physical gesture and a phrase that means the same thing as good luck. People often say both together.
Use with or on for events. For example, good luck with the move or good luck on your test.
It is an old theater superstition. Actors thought that wishing for good luck would actually cause bad things to happen.
No, you should use I'm glad it went well or Congratulations for past events.
Related Phrases
Best of luck
A slightly more formal version of good luck.
Break a leg
A superstitious way to wish luck to a performer.
Fingers crossed
Hoping for a good result.
I'll root for you
I will be cheering for your success.
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