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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.
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Where did the phrase “break a leg” come from?
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Why do people 'break a leg'?
Allusion to John Wilkes Booth. 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.
www.yourdictionary.com · articles · break-leg-idiomBreak a Leg: Meaning and Origin of a Common Idiom
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.
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good luckbest wishesstroke of luckto wish someone luck especially before a performance“Break a leg!” shouted the stage director to his actors before the beginning of the play.You have an exam tomorrow? Break a leg!“My first stage performance is scheduled for tonight.” “Well, break a leg!”“Break a leg!” I shouted out to him before he rushed in for his auditions.This phrase has its origin in the world of theater. Performers had a superstition that saying “good luck” would actually bring them bad luck, so “break a leg” was used instead. Body, Fortune, Luck, Wishes
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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Aug 9, 2021 · “Break a leg” is a phrase that means “good luck.” It’s typically said to actors before they go on stage for a performance, particularly on opening night.
What Does “Break a Leg” Mean? Break a leg is a commonly used idiom that means “good luck.” Remember, an idiom is an expression that means something entirely different from the literal meaning of the words used. So, if someone tells you to break a leg, don’t worry; they’re just wishing you good luck. Joan told me about your ...
