Break a leg origin The meaning of “break a leg” is an idiom that means “good luck”. , bending at the knee. Find out its possible sources, alternative expressions, and how to respond to it. Performers believed that saying good luck would bring bad luck, so they would say break a leg instead. Nov 25, 2024 · Some think the phrase comes from the German phrase "Hals-und Beinbruch," which translates to "neck and leg break" and also meant "good luck" in the theater world. There's another potential link to early American theater history. Competing Theory It goes hand in hand with the theatrical superstition that to wish an actor good luck will invoke the very opposite. Just like “kick the May 18, 2021 · The origin of the phrase " Break a leg" is uncertain, though I guess it derives from the belief that spirits may wreak havoc on what you wish and make the opposite happen. In the same vein, if you wish someone good luck, you will only have bad luck. ) It can mean about the same as "good luck". break a leg on Wikipedia. e. Feb 22, 2023 · Among performers, it’s considered unlucky to wish someone good luck before they go on stage, so instead one says, break a leg. The most common theory refers to an actor breaking the “leg line” of the stage. According to Farmer & Henley, in 17c. When the team went out for the final race, the coach shouted out to them “break a leg!” I wish you good luck on the completion of your book writing for publishing. Aug 26, 2020 · Shake a leg adalah idiom dalam Bahasa Inggris yang biasa digunakan untuk memberi tahu seseorang agar bertindak atau bergegas lebih cepat. "Break a leg" has nothing to do with luck. "Break a leg" dùng cho các trường hợp trịnh trọng, đơn giản, lịch sự hay đời thường đều được. It is often used as a greeting among the actors before they go onstage. E xpressions with deeper meanings or fascinating origin stories tend to be used commonly in the English language — everything Arguably the most common way to use "break a leg" is when Sep 28, 2024 · Lighter Side. My mother said ‘Break a Leg’ to me before my audition: I was very nervous Jul 12, 2011 · 'Break a leg' also means, 'make a strenuous effort'. The origin of the phrase is uncertain, but it may have come from the superstition that wishing someone "good luck" could jinx them, so instead, people would say "break a leg" as a way to wish them success without invoking bad luck. : Smithsonian Books in association with Penguin Books, →ISBN. (Here, an "expression" means a particular way of saying something. A Of all theatrical superstitions, this attempt to ward off the forces of darkness by wishing one’s fellow performers the opposite of good luck is the one that’s perhaps best known outside the profession. Meaning of Break A Leg. Theatrical use of the phrase doesn’t appear until the mid Feb 5, 2014 · Why "break a leg?" As with many theatrical superstitions, there are many imaginative—if unreliable—back stories to explain the origin of the phrase. Break a leg! “Break a Leg” Origin. Explore Urdupoint to find out more popular Idioms and Idiom Meanings, to amplify your writings Dec 6, 2024 · What Does ‘Break a Leg’ Mean? The phrase “break a leg” is widely recognized as a way to wish someone good luck, particularly before a performance. Some believe that it originated from ancient Greek theater where actors would bend their knees (or legs) as a sign of respect to the audience after a successful performance. News Before going on stage, the actor's friends told him, "Break a leg!" The band members wished each other to break a leg before their big concert. BREAK A LEG definition: 1. There are different theories about the origin of this idiom, but one possible explanation is that it comes from the idea of bending or bowing one’s leg as a sign of Break the leg means being paid for going on stage, but phrase is thematic. Feb 17, 2023 · Meaning of “Break a leg” The idiom “Break a leg” is a phrase commonly used in theater and performing arts, which is meant to wish someone good luck before a performance. Learn about the possible sources, theatrical superstitions and the earliest citations of this phrase. The idiom "Break a Leg means "good luck". When you hear someone use the term ‘break a leg’ they are usually wishing the person they are talking to, good luck. in (in); bocca (mouth); al (a + il); lupo, wolf; So in bocca al lupo literally means “in the mouth of the wolf”. Interestingly, “Break a Leg” has evolved beyond the stage world, and now includes the variants such as “give me a break“, “getting a break”, and “breaking into the business”. The Definition of 'Break a Leg'You might be surprised to learn that when someone tells you to 'break a leg Jun 27, 2024 · Before his first stand-up gig, his wife said, “Break a leg, honey!” “Break a leg at the spelling bee today,” his mom encouraged. It is believed to have gained prominence in the 20th century, though its exact origins are a matter of much debate. An ironic or non-literal saying of uncertain origin (a dead metaphor), [1] "break a leg" is commonly said to actors and musicians before they go on stage to perform or before an audition. Nov 1, 2023 · Break a leg! You should leave now if you want to arrive early for the exam. This saying shows how English sayings can seem odd at first. May 21, 2021 · Learn the history and usage of the idiom "break a leg", which is mainly used for wishing an actor a great and successful show. Break a leg! Break a leg! Shouted the stage director to his actors before the beginning of the play. To break or enter in view from the legs, one set of the further back curtains onstage. . Meski begitu, jika diartikan secara harfiah, idiom ini akan memiliki arti goyangkan kaki. By saying the opposite of what is intended, it is believed that luck will be reversed, thus ensuring a successful outcome. BREAK A LEG definition: said to a performer who is about to go on stage as a way of wishing them good luck | Meaning, pronunciation, translations and examples It may sound nice to wish an actor good luck on their stage debut, but it might actually be kinder to tell them to break a leg. The Origin of “Break a Leg” The exact origin of this idiom is uncertain, but there are several theories about how it came into use. Jan 6, 2017 · The actor was told to break a leg as he prepared to go on stage. Advertisement Like a puzzle with missing pieces, the true origin of this idiom continues to elude us, leaving us to ponder its mysterious history and enduring popularity in the world of theater. Hold onto your playbills, because the origin story of "break a leg" has a few different theories! While we can't pinpoint the exact moment this phrase made its debut, it Jan 23, 2024 · When you first hear the phrase 'break a leg,' it might sound like a strange or even scary thing to say to someone. The idea is that bad luck will not occur simply because you said it would occur. Hold onto your playbills, because the origin story of "break a leg" has a few different theories! While we can't pinpoint the exact moment this phrase made its debut, it The expression “break a leg” has been common among actors since the early 1900s and presumably reflects a theatrical superstition in which wishing a person "good luck" is considered bad luck. Break A Leg is an idiom. Actors answer the phone before it rings. Feb 21, 2012 · What is the meaning and origin of ‘break a leg'? (R. Yet, “break a leg” is actually a way to wish someone luck in theater, showing the quirky side of idioms. Oct 7, 2024 · Break a Leg Meaning – Created by 7ESL Break a Leg Meaning. False information about the origin of the phrase “Break a Leg” The plaque reads: Break a Leg. It means to try hard to the extent that you break a leg. Interestingly, “Break a Leg” has evolved beyond the stage world, and now includes the variants such as “ give me a break “, “ getting a break ”, and “ breaking into the business ”. June, 2023 Break a leg definition: . Dec 23, 2024 · Break a leg origin One of the most common theories is that the idiom originated in the theater world due to performers’ belief that saying “good luck” brought bad luck. Dec 29, 2021 · Nobody knows exactly when or how the saying "break a leg" came about, but there are a few leading theories. “Break a leg at your dance recital tonight!” “I heard you’re up for the lead role. First, involving the 20th century American theater, is an evolution of the German saying "Hals-und Beinbruch," translated as "neck and leg break," which Germans also use as a way to wish someone good fortune, or at the very least, reprieve from any unfortunate accidents. What is the origin of “break a leg”? May 19, 2024 · Why would anyone wish for a broken leg as a sign of good fortune? Let’s delve into the intriguing history and significance behind this famous expression. Đối tượng của nó Aug 8, 2000 · Eric Partridge, in his Dictionary of Catchphrases, suggests that “break a leg” originated as a translation of a similar expression used by German actors: Hals- und Beinbruch (literally, “a broken neck and a broken leg. Aug 21, 2023 · Other Ways to Say 'Break a Leg' What are some other words and phrases that have a similar meaning to 'break a leg'? Here are some options: Good luck; Knock 'em dead; Give it your all; Knock it out of the park; Final Thoughts About 'Break a Leg' The idiom 'break a leg' is used to wish someone good luck before they participate in a performance of If the audience stomped long enough, they would break a leg. In some superstitious cultures, wishing someone good luck directly is believed to bring bad luck. Whether you’re a performer waiting to take the stage, a student about to write a test, or just someone nervously waiting for a job interview, the phrase “break a leg” is meant to bring you good luck as you now know what “Break a leg” really means! Dec 18, 2024 · Michael Quinion (2004) “Break a leg”, in Ballyhoo, Buckaroo, and Spuds: Ingenious Tales of Words and Their Origins, Washington, D. My favorite false tale was that in Elizabethian times, to bow so deeply you had bend your knee, or break your leg. This idiom is traditionally used in theatre and means good luck. Aug 26, 2024 · “My first stage performance is scheduled for tonight. the expression was used euphemistically, of a woman, "to "Break a leg" is an English language idiom used in the theatre or other performing arts to wish a performer "good luck". Oct 12, 2021 · If the audience stomped long enough, they would break a leg. The expression “break a leg” has been common among actors since the early 1900s and presumably reflects a theatrical superstition in which wishing a person "good luck" is considered bad luck. Hold onto your playbills, because the origin story of "break a leg" has a few different theories! While we can't pinpoint the exact moment this phrase made its debut, it Jun 6, 2024 · Origin of Break a Leg Idiom The idiom has theatrical origins, often attributed to actors wishing each other ‘bad luck’ as a form of reverse psychology to avoid jinxing a performance. Veronique Origins of “Break a Leg” The exact origins of “break a leg” are somewhat murky, with several theories contributing to its mystery. One favorite is that breaking a leg is an elegant metaphor for taking a bow or making a curtsey, i. There are many references to the phrase used that way, which pre-date the earliest theatrical good luck charm meaning. It sounds a bit implausible, but I suppose stranger things have happened. However, in English, this idiom is actually meant to wish someone good luck! This post will help you understand the meaning, history, and use of this interesting phrase. Is “Break a Leg” Similar to Other Idioms with Unconventional Meanings? When exploring the meaning of ‘toyt’, it becomes clear that “break a leg” is similar to other idioms with unconventional meanings. break a leg meaning, definition, what is break a leg: used to wish someone luck, especially ju: Learn more. It is usually said to someone who is about to perform on stage, such as an actor, a singer, or a dancer. Nov 14, 2012 · The term “break a leg” may be traced back to the Elizabethan language. Still, if someone tells you to “break a leg” and their tone doesn’t sound like they’re saying, “Drop dead,” you should probably assume they’re sending well wishes. There are some who argue that it originated when John Wilkes Booth broke his leg after assassinating President Lincoln in Ford’s Theatre. Q From G A Michael: What is the origin and meaning of the expression break a leg, said to persons who are preparing to appear in a theatrical production?. Skip to main content. Since a successful actor would “break a leg” onstage and receive applause, the phrase would, in effect, be a wish for good luck. So, instead, they’d wish for something bad to happen, like for a performer to “break a leg. Nov 9, 2024 · Here’s a list of some of the most common similar words and synonyms to the phrase ‘Break a Leg’. Medicare. According to the Phrase Finder, ‘break a leg’ had a much earlier meaning — “to give birth to a bastard” — that went out of usage in the 17th century and had no bearing on the modern good luck message. A more likely origin is from Shakespeare’s time when “to break a leg” meant to “take a bow”. May 19, 2024 · 'Break a Leg' has been widely performed in theaters globally, known for its humor and theatrical themes. Sep 28, 2024 · 'Break a Leg' Origin. See examples of BREAK A LEG used in a sentence. Competing Theory "Break a leg" comes from the German saying "Hals und Beinbruch," which means break your neck and leg. Foi dito boa sorte ao ator enquanto ele se preparava para entrar no palco. This theatrical expression originated in Music Hall/Vaudeville days around the 1800’s. The standard response to Break a leg! is Thanks! Origin of Break A Leg! Aug 25, 2023 · The origin of break a leg has to do with jinxing bad luck. but the exact origin of the phrase is unknown. ”) The German phrase traces back to early aviators, possibly during World War I, spreading gradually to the German stage My favorite (having understudied a few times) is that it came from the understudies telling the primaries to “break a leg” enough times that it came to be considered bad luck if they didn’t say it. Oct 18, 2024 · The origin of "break a leg" is uncertain, but it’s thought to come from theater traditions. Learn about the different theories behind this idiom, from Old English to modern theater, and why it's considered bad luck to say it out loud. What does Break a leg! expression mean? Definitions by the largest Idiom Dictionary. Origin of Oct 14, 2024 · Here, phrases like “break a leg” take on new meanings. Discover the possible origins, alternative expressions and modern examples of this theatre superstition. ” Nov 9, 2022 · They would wish each other luck by saying, “break a leg”, meaning, “I hope you get paid“. There are a few other expressions you Some other theories of the origin of the idiom “break a leg” In the First World War German aviators wished each other good luck and safe return with the words hals-und beinbruch (break a leg). However, it’s now a popular phrase that’s used outside the theatre world to wish someone success in whatever they want to Break a leg is an idiom. Then, a co-worker could say "Break a leg!". So the theories they offer stem from this. The sentiment clearly arises out of a desire not to jinx a performance, but why break a leg is the specific expression of this desire is a bit mysterious. Đừng nói "I hope you break a leg" nhé, vì đó là chúc người khác gãy chân thật. the meaning is not to be taken literally. Additionally, it’s generally thought that the term became popular in American with the entrance of Jewish immigrants into the country and entertainment industry in the early-mid 'Break a Leg' Origin. From David Scears : “Break a Leg”: Meaning, Examples and Sentences Elaboration and Examples: “Break a leg” is a common phrase used to wish someone good luck, particularly in the performing arts. Break a leg!” “Break a leg at the chess tournament!” “Let’s break a leg at the talent show!” What to say Nov 4, 2022 · The phrase 'break a leg' does not literally mean that someone should break a leg, but just implies that it should go well with the event that is said or implied. To “break a leg”, in Shakespeare’s time, meant, literally, to bow- by bending at the knee. ” This odd expression is an archaic term that started in the early days of stage drama and performance. Some say the term originated during Elizabethan times when, instead of applause, the audience would bang their chairs on the ground — and if they liked it enough, the leg of the chair would break. There are many theories as to the origin, ranging from breaking a leg meaning to bow when taking applause, to the assassin John Wilkes Booth breaking a leg when he jumped down from the balcony after killing Abraham Lincoln in 1865. It is one of the most commonly used expressions in English writings. This expression was used in theaters by actors. BREAK A LEG meaning: 1. [6] Another hypothesis is that, since the ancient Greeks used to stomp their feet in appreciation instead of clapping, "Break a leg" would mean "make them stomp their feet May 31, 2024 · 注意点としては、「break your leg」ではなく「break a leg」であること です。「your leg」と言ってしまうと本当に「あなたの脚を折れ」となってしまうため気を付けましょう。 「がんばれ！」と言いたい時は英語で何て表現する？ ここからは「がんばれ！ Jul 24, 2018 · Tuy nhiên, bạn nên dùng "Break a leg" như 1 câu đơn và đừng nói gì thêm nữa. An expression or phrase that has a figurative meaning i. The origins of the phrase are uncertain, but there are a few theories about where it came from. Learn the history and usage of the phrase "break a leg", a common expression of good luck and encouragement in theater and other fields. As the singer prepared for the audition, her friends encouraged her by saying, "Break a leg!" The dancer's fellow performers cheered her on, shouting, "Break a leg!" before the recital. Here are a few popular explanations: Aug 9, 2021 · The post Where Did the Phrase “Break a Leg” Come From? appeared first on Reader's Digest. Break a leg!" This is a common expression used to wish someone good luck, particularly in the performing arts. Though a similar and Break a leg is a theatrical expression for good luck, but it may have different meanings and origins. 7) Break A Legend. break a leg phrase. 24/7 Help. Break a Leg Meaning Quiz. Jun 24, 2023 · Regardless of its specific origin story, “break a leg” has evolved into a commonly used expression not only among actors but also in other artistic and performance-based communities. When the team went out for the final race, the coach shouted out to them break a leg! Break a leg! I shouted out to him before he rushed in for his auditions. The story behind “break a leg” is tied to language and tradition. 別人對你說Break a leg不是叫你打斷腿，Break your neck也不是要你扭斷脖子，break簡單又實用，卻有很多口語化俚語讓人有聽沒有懂，想說一口道地英文，這8句老外都懂的生活俚語你一定要會！ Feb 11, 2024 · Origin: The origin of the idiom “break a leg” is not definitively known, but it likely stems from the superstition that directly wishing someone good luck before a performance could bring bad luck. Break a leg is essentually translated to "go on stage". Break a leg! Origin Break a leg Meaning A superstitious way to wish ‘good luck’ to an actor before a performance while avoiding saying ‘good luck’ out loud, which is considered unlucky. Jun 1, 2024 · Regardless of its origin, the **figurative meaning of ‘break a leg‘** is widely understood as a way to wish someone success without tempting fate. The term has Yiddish origins. If we had to translate this English idiom literally, we would say rompiti una gamba, but that makes no sense to an Italian native speaker! So only acts that made it past the leg line (the curtains on the sides of the stage that separate onstage from the wings) could be guaranteed money. May 30, 2024 · 🎭 Have you ever been told to "break a leg" before a big performance? In this video, we look into the fascinating history and meaning behind this famous thea Sep 28, 2024 · 'Break a Leg' Origin. Some said it is adapted from other languages such as Italian and Frence but one of the most reasonable is the following. The traditional opening night cry of Break a leg! really means Good luck, but in this comedy send-up of every possible theatrical disaster, breaking a leg is the only thing that doesn't happen. C. Sep 30, 2022 · Break a Leg on Your English Learning Journey! Now you understand the break a leg meaning. “Break a Leg” Synonyms. " Artinya, Break a leg Next time we'll break a leg response to "break a leg" Break a leg - outside theatre - English Only forum break a leg or an arm - English Only forum break a leg, break the nose [articles usage] - English Only forum break a leg! [said to actors; musicians? etc. What does break a leg expression mean? Definitions by the largest Idiom Dictionary Break a leg definition: . Evidence of a highly superstitious craft (see Macbeth). ] - English Only forum Break a leg! Knock them dead! - English Only forum 不详，有很多未证实及争议不断的说法。最有说服力的是，其源自 意第绪语 הצלחה און ברכה (hatslokhe un brokhe, “ 成功和祝福 ”) ，因阿什肯纳兹犹太人在美国戏剧界的重大影响而传播开来，其源自 德语 对该短语的错误理解产生的词Hals- und Beinbruch (“ 脖子断腿断 ”) 。 Apr 28, 2023 · What Is the Meaning of “Break a Leg?” “Break a leg” is an idiomatic statement that means “good luck. Origin: The idiom 'Break a leg' has its origins in the theater world. Jun 3, 2015 · 文：Jenny Tseng. However, it is believed that the expression is rooted in theater. Break a leg" is an English-language idiom used in the context of theatre or other performing arts to wish a performer "good luck". Break A Leg stands for (idiomatic) To perform well in a theatrical production or comparable endeavor. For example, the following things could be related to "breaking a leg": Dec 15, 2018 · They would wish each other luck by saying “break a leg”, meaning, “I hope you get paid“. Learn more. Producers would have on stand-by as many different acts as possible to fill the bill. 영국에서 연극이 성행을 하고 왕족과 귀족, 그리고 대중들에게 인기를 누리던 시절, The ironic theatrical good luck formula break a leg (by 1948, said to be from at least 1920s) has parallels in German Hals- und Beinbruch "break your neck and leg," and Italian in bocca al lupo. Sep 27, 2021 · As the root origin of break a leg is unknown, there are numerous theories as to its origin. "Break a leg" is an expression from Britain. The clear origin of such a term is unclear. Some theories suggest that wishing someone 'good luck' directly was considered bad luck, so performers would use 'break a leg' as a form of reverse psychology or superstition. break a leg翻譯：用來祝對方好運（特別是在上臺演出之前）。了解更多。 Definition of break a leg in the Idioms Dictionary. So the origin remains a bit unclear. As the curtains drew to a close, the audience erupted into applause, shouting, ' Break a leg!' The actress felt a surge of confidence as her fellow cast members cheered, ' Break a leg, you'll do great!' " Break a leg" is an intriguing idiom that encapsulates the theatrical world's unique expressions of good luck and encouragement. Jul 28, 2021 · Break a leg is a common expression to wish good luck to performers, but it has a dark and sarcastic history. The term is very commonly used in a theatrical setting for actors before they go on stage but it is now used more and more commonly in other settings. Break a leg! phrase. Good luck; All the best; Godspeed; Better luck next time; Go nail it; Also Read: In For a Penny, In For a Pound Meaning, Examples, Synonyms. Jun 7, 2003 · Break a leg. Mar 20, 2023 · Break a leg is a phrase that means good luck, especially for actors. ” “Well, break a leg!” “Break a leg!” I shouted out to him before he rushed in for his auditions. This saying was a banter-style wish used among German aircrew throughout World War II. Before an actor went on stage, other actors could wish that he or she had good luck in their work. Doors open before anyone knocks. For example, the idea that break a leg was a metaphor to bowing and curtsying to the audience because you receive applause. Gary Martin (1997–) “Break-a-leg”, in The Phrase Finder. It is believed to have started in the early 20th century. Break a leg. Some think the phrase "break a leg" refers to crossing the "leg line" on stage. The phrase has made its rounds through all performance arts Before going on stage, the actor's friends told him, "Break a leg!" The band members wished each other to break a leg before their big concert. The wish to another actor/company to “Break a leg” is the hope that they will break the leg-line and therefore get paid. Hold onto your playbills, because the origin story of "break a leg" has a few different theories! While we can't pinpoint the exact moment this phrase made its debut, it Apr 18, 2013 · 그 중 Break a leg도 다리가 부러지지 말고, 공연을 잘 끝내기를 바라는 미신에서 비롯된 표현이라고 말합니다. No one knows exactly where and when the phrase break a leg originated. Break a Leg! Script Order Now. The phrase has gained popularity beyond the theater world and is now used in various contexts to wish someone success or good luck. For premium support please call: 800-290-4726 Aug 7, 2023 · The idiom can be broken down as follows:. Contoh penggunaannya: "Come on, Nick, shake a leg or we'll never be ready in time. Below are the most popular explanations for how the term crept into 20th-century wings and green rooms. used for wishing someone…. The saying has associations with stage performance, but this is not always the case and the phrase can be applied to any event for which luck would be assumed necessary by the speaker. Breaking the Leg Line. 그런데 Break a leg 이라는 표현의 유래에 대해 다른 이야기도 있답니다. Wikipedia ; Break A Leg - English Idiom Saying Break a leg! to someone before an important event means you hope that he or she does well or has a great show. This is implausible because the earliest references to the phrase explicitly mention that the phrase "good luck" was considered Break-a-leg definition: (idiomatic) To perform well in a theatrical production or comparable endeavor. The phrase “Hals- und Beinbruch,” means “neck and leg break,” was take from the Hebrew meaning “success and blessing,” both have a similar pronunciation. Nandini, Pune) This is an expression used mostly in the world of theatre to mean ‘good luck'. It may have come from the German or Hebrew languages, and it has some superstitions and alternatives. Despite its seemingly negative words, it is a positive and encouraging expression. used for wishing someone good luck, especially before a performance 2. This was an invisible line separating the main stage from the wings, where actors would wait to go on stage. It is most common in the theatre, where actors say it to each other or family and friends say it to actors before taking the stage. acvevng mrff pflyio gvaldd kthf dlfx zinusx rrji jsylli ozc