The idiom "break a leg" is commonly used to wish someone good luck, especially in the performing arts, such as before a stage performance or a theatrical production. The phrase is believed to have originated in the theater world, where it was considered bad luck to wish someone "good luck" before a performance. Instead, actors and performers would say "break a leg" as a way of wishing each other success. The phrase is now used more generally to wish someone good luck or success in any endeavor, not just in the performing arts.
The exact origin of the idiom is unclear, but there are several theories about its origin. One theory suggests that it may have originated in the theater world, where it was considered bad luck to wish someone "good luck" before a performance. Instead, performers would say "break a leg" as a way of expressing the opposite sentiment, hoping that the performer would have to take multiple bows at the end of the show, "breaking" the line of their leg as they did so.
The exact origin of the idiom is unclear, but there are several theories about its origin. One theory suggests that it may have originated in the theater world, where it was considered bad luck to wish someone "good luck" before a performance. Instead, performers would say "break a leg" as a way of expressing the opposite sentiment, hoping that the performer would have to take multiple bows at the end of the show, "breaking" the line of their leg as they did so.
by idiomsallday February 19, 2023
Get the Break a leg mug.Often said to an actor before an audition by his/her mis-informed peers.
They belive that if he/she does break their leg they will be in a cast for weeks.
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They belive that if he/she does break their leg they will be in a cast for weeks.
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by Ashier January 6, 2010
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by teacher.Bah February 24, 2020
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Get the break a leg mug.In Shakespearean times, the poor people (groundlings) were known to be lowkey stupid, and drool in awe when excited. Because the groundlings were placed right in front of the stage and so damn slobbery, the drool would drip onto the stage. So if the actor was slaying, the groundlings would drool, resulting in the actor's inevitable slip and bone fracture.
by TurtleNugget912 May 11, 2025
Get the Break a Leg mug.A theatrical way to say "good luck" without actually saying "good luck," because it’s considered bad luck to wish someone good luck in show business. Instead, you wish them to "break a leg" so the opposite (success) will happen. Used not just in theater anymore, but for performances, interviews, and other high-stakes situations.
by RealTalkDisco September 22, 2025
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