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Where did the phrase “break a leg” come from?
Why do people say 'Break a leg'?
What does “break a leg” mean in theater?
The phrase ‘break a leg’ is a jovial encouragement, said to actors for good luck before they go on stage, especially on an opening night. What's the origin of the phrase 'Break a leg'? Theatrical types are well known for their belief in superstitions, or at least for their willingness to make a show of pretending to believe in them.
One popular etymology derives the phrase from the 1865 assassination of Abraham Lincoln, [21] during which John Wilkes Booth, the actor-turned-assassin, claimed in his diary that he broke his leg leaping to the stage of Ford's Theatre after murdering the president.
May 21, 2021 · When someone is about to perform on stage, you say, "Break a leg!" But why would you say something that sounds so violent — and where did this odd expression come from? Learn all about the "break a leg" meaning, origin and use in modern conversation.
The etymology of the common idiom “break a leg,” uttered as a wish for success, is steeped in mystery. Originating in the American theater scene in the early 20th century, this saying has been linked to many possible sources.
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Oct 3, 2022 · break a leg idiom meaning, origin, examples in a sentence, dark meanings, definition, synonyms, interesting facts, backstory, and the history of the phrase.
Aug 9, 2021 · Break a leg is a phrase that means good luck, especially for performers. It may have come from the German or Hebrew languages, and it has some superstitions and alternatives.
Meaning. A superstitious way to wish ‘good luck’ to an actor before a performance while avoiding saying ‘good luck’ out loud, which is considered unlucky. Examples. People often said ‘break a leg’ to Olivier, but he didn’t really need it. Where did it originate? USA, 20th century. Where is it used? Worldwide. Hear the idiom spoken.
