Idiom of The Day – Break A Leg Meaning & Examples

Quick Summary

Idiom: Break a Leg
Meaning: Good luck or best wishes (especially before a performance or important event)
Example: Before the big show, the director told the actors, “Break a leg, everyone!”

The idiom “Break a leg” is a funny and creative way to wish someone good luck. But without saying the words “good luck.”

This phrase is especially popular in theatre, music, or film circles, where people believe saying “good luck” directly might actually bring bad luck! So instead, they say “Break a leg!” — a cheerful, superstitious, and encouraging way to wish someone success.

It’s now used in all kinds of situations — from exams and interviews to sports and stage performances.

Break a Leg Idiom In Sentences

1. Before her final dance performance, her teacher smiled and said, “Break a leg!”
2. “Break a leg tomorrow on your presentation — you’ll do amazing!”
3. The coach wished his team, “Break a leg, everyone!” before the match started.
4. “I know you’re nervous about your audition. Don’t worry — break a leg!”
5. The director encouraged all the actors, “Go out there and break a leg!”
6. My best friend said, “Break a leg!” before my first job interview.
7. The teacher told her students, “Break a leg in your exams — you’ve prepared well!”
8. “Break a leg!” is a positive phrase, even though it sounds the opposite!
9. “You’re ready for the big stage — break a leg and show them what you’ve got!”
10. Before her speech, everyone told her, “Break a leg!” and she smiled with confidence.

Want to learn more idioms easily? Check out our Complete Guide to Everyday American Idioms—you’ll find more simple meanings, fun examples, and real-life practice!

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