What does “Lord willing and the creek don't rise” mean?

"Lord willing and the creek don't rise" means that if everything goes as planned and there are no unexpected obstacles or problems.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I'll be there tomorrow, Lord willing and the creek don't rise.

Example

We should finish the project on time, Lord willing and the creek don't rise.

Example

I'll see you at the party tonight, Lord willing and the creek don't rise

Is “Lord willing and the creek don't rise” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Lord willing and the creek don't rise” 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 “Lord willing and the creek don't rise” effectively in context?

You can use "Lord willing and the creek don't rise" to express the idea that you hope everything goes as planned and there are no unexpected obstacles or problems. It is often used to convey a sense of optimism and anticipation. For example, if someone asks if you will be able to attend an event, you might respond, 'I'll be there tomorrow, "Lord willing and the creek don't rise".'

1Commitments
We should finish the project on time, Lord willing and the creek don't rise.
2Social Events
I'll see you at the party tonight, Lord willing and the creek don't rise.
3Travel
I'll be there tomorrow, Lord willing and the creek don't rise.

Similar phrases to “Lord willing and the creek don't rise”:

If all goes well

If everything goes according to plan

Example

We should finish the project on time, if all goes well.

Fingers crossed

Expressing the hope that something will happen as desired

Example

I'll see you at the party tonight, fingers crossed.

With any luck

If fortunate circumstances occur

Example

I'll be there tomorrow, with any luck.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Lord willing and the creek don't rise” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Lord willing and the creek don't rise" is unknown.

Is “Lord willing and the creek don't rise” common in everyday conversation?

"Lord willing and the creek don't rise" is not a very common phrase in everyday conversation. It is more commonly used in certain regions or among specific groups of people.

What tone does “Lord willing and the creek don't rise” have?

"Lord willing and the creek don't rise" conveys a tone of hopefulness and optimism. It suggests that the speaker is looking forward to a future event or outcome and is expressing their desire for everything to go smoothly.

Can “Lord willing and the creek don't rise” be used in informal and formal settings?

"Lord willing and the creek don't rise" is generally considered to be an informal expression. It is more likely to be used in casual conversations with friends, family, or acquaintances rather than in formal or professional settings.

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

It is typically used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'I'll be there tomorrow, "Lord willing and the creek don't rise".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'See you later, "Lord willing and the creek don't rise"!' to imply the hope that nothing unexpected will prevent the meeting.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

hopefully
god willing
if everything goes as planned
if nothing goes wrong
if there are no hiccups

Antonyms

if something goes wrong
in case of unforeseen circumstances
if the worst happens
if there are obstacles