student asking question

What does “break a leg” mean?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

"Break a leg" is an interesting English expression! "Break a leg" actually means good luck. It's typically said to actors and actresses before performing in a play or musical. However, you can say this to others before they do something. This is not someone cursing another, even though it kind of sounds like it. The next time you are at a play or performance of some kind, you can say "break a leg" to the performers because you are wishing them good luck for their performance. Ex: I hope your baseball game goes well. Break a leg! => incorrect usage (X) Ex: I hope the talent show goes well. Break a leg! => correct usage (O)

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