Knock on Wood; Touch Wood: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Knock on Wood; Touch Wood” mean?

"Knock on Wood; Touch Wood" means to hope that something bad does not happen.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I haven't had any car accidents this year, knock on wood.

Example

I'm feeling healthy and haven't gotten sick yet, touch wood.

Example

I hope the weather stays nice for our outdoor event, knock on wood

Is “Knock on Wood; Touch Wood” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Knock on Wood; Touch Wood” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Knock on Wood; Touch Wood” effectively in context?

You can use "Knock on Wood" or "Touch Wood" to express a superstitious hope that something bad does not happen. It is often used after mentioning a positive situation or outcome, as a way to ward off any potential jinx. For example, if someone says, 'I haven't had any car accidents this year,' you might respond, '"Knock on wood",' to express the hope that they continue to stay safe.

• 1. Personal Luck

  I'm feeling healthy and haven't gotten sick yet, touch wood.

• 2. Weather

  I hope the weather stays nice for our outdoor event, knock on wood.

• 3. Avoiding Misfortune

  I haven't had any car accidents this year, knock on wood.

Similar phrases to “Knock on Wood; Touch Wood”:

Cross one's fingers

To hope for good luck or success

Example

I'm hoping to win the lottery, so I'm crossing my fingers.

Keep one's fingers crossed

To hope for a positive outcome or good luck

Example

I have a job interview tomorrow, so keep your fingers crossed for me.

Wish upon a star

To make a wish or hope for something good to happen

Example

I wish upon a star every night for my dreams to come true.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Knock on Wood; Touch Wood” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Knock on Wood" is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated from ancient pagan beliefs. It was believed that spirits and gods resided in trees, and by knocking on wood, people were seeking protection or good luck. The phrase "Touch Wood" is a variation commonly used in British English.

Is “Knock on Wood; Touch Wood” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Knock on Wood" and "Touch Wood" are both very common idioms in everyday conversation. People often use them to express a superstitious hope for continued good luck or to avoid tempting fate.

What tone does “Knock on Wood; Touch Wood” have?

"Knock on Wood" and "Touch Wood" convey a tone of cautious optimism and a belief in superstition. They are often used lightheartedly and playfully.

Can “Knock on Wood; Touch Wood” be used in informal and formal settings?

Both "Knock on Wood" and "Touch Wood" can be used in both informal and formal settings. They are widely recognized idioms and can be used in various contexts, such as casual conversations with friends or more formal situations like business meetings or presentations.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

Both phrases are commonly used by themselves to convey their meaning. For example, if someone says, 'I hope everything goes well,' you can simply respond with '"Knock on wood"' or '"Touch wood"' to express the same sentiment.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• fingers crossed
• hope for the best
• ward off bad luck
• avoid tempting fate

Antonyms

• tempt fate
• expect the worst
• prepare for the worst