Well‑wishing

To convey encouragement without explicitly stating 'good luck', preserving theatrical superstition that says speaking literal luck may bring bad luck.

Before a live performance, audition, play rehearsal, or any high‑stakes artistic event where the phrase carries cultural significance.

Performing arts (theatre, opera, dance), film/video shoots with an audience presence, and informal settings like job interviews when participants are familiar with theatre culture.

break a leg

break a leg

none

• none

• good luck (but superstitious to avoid)

break your leg (not idiomatic); using literal 'good luck' in theatre contexts is considered unlucky.

knock 'em dead, toi-toi-toi

Not applicable for English speakers; the idiom does not transfer as a threat or negative wish across languages.

• Performance luck idioms

The phrase embodies theatrical superstition: saying literal 'good luck' may bring bad fortune, so performers use this inversion instead.

Builds camaraderie and positive energy among cast/crew by sharing an insider cultural cue that signals good wishes without invoking any perceived curse.

Actor taking a bow by bending his leg (visual cue of wishing success).

This expression is often used in informal settings among friends or colleagues who are familiar with the performing arts.

I wish you every success (formal)