In life, we all look for little signs and ways to encourage success and good fortune. Idioms about good luck have been used for centuries to inspire positivity and hope. These expressions are more than just words—they carry powerful messages that resonate with us when we need them the most.
Whether you’re wishing someone well on a new adventure or hoping for a bit of luck in a tough situation, good luck idioms can be just the right way to express those warm wishes.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 different idioms about good luck, explain their meanings, and provide examples to help you understand how to use them in your daily conversations.
What Is An Idiom?
Definition: An idiom is a phrase or expression whose meaning is not predictable from the usual meanings of its individual words. These phrases often carry a cultural or figurative meaning that must be understood as a whole.
Example: “Break a leg” doesn’t actually mean to break a leg but is a way to wish someone good luck, especially before a performance.
Explanation: Understanding idioms can be fun and a way to connect deeper with language, as their meanings often reflect culture, history, and shared experiences.
List for Idioms About Good Luck
- Break a Leg
- Hit the Jackpot
- Your Luck Is In
- A Stroke of Luck
- On a Roll
- Knock on Wood
- To Have the Midas Touch
- Fortune Favors the Bold
- Lucky Break
- The Sky’s the Limit
- A Feather in Your Cap
- The Luck of the Draw
- To Sail Through
- In the Right Place at the Right Time
- A Lucky Star
- A Roll of the Dice
- A Golden Opportunity
- Against All Odds
- In the Cards
- A Lucky Charm
1. Break a Leg
This is a popular idiom used to wish someone good luck, especially before a performance.
Definition: “Break a leg” means to wish someone success or good fortune without actually saying the words “good luck.”
Example: Before her big presentation, I told her to “break a leg.”
Explanation: The origin of this idiom is tied to the theater, where saying “good luck” was thought to bring bad luck. So, “break a leg” was used as a superstitious alternative to wish performers well.
In a sentence: “Before the big performance, I whispered ‘break a leg’ to her, hoping she’d have the best of luck.”
Other ways to say:
- Best of luck
- Wishing you success
- Go get ’em
- Knock ’em dead
- Do your best
2. Hit the Jackpot
When someone hits the jackpot, they’re experiencing great success or luck, often unexpectedly.
Definition: This idiom refers to winning big, especially in gambling, but it can also apply to any situation where someone achieves something significant.
Example: She hit the jackpot when she was offered her dream job.
Explanation: Originating from the world of gambling, where hitting the jackpot meant winning a large sum, this expression now refers to any big, positive outcome in life.
In a sentence: “After years of hard work, he finally hit the jackpot with a major business deal.”
Other ways to say:
- Struck gold
- Hit the big time
- Found a treasure
- Reached the peak
- Made a fortune
3. Your Luck Is In
This expression suggests that good fortune is currently on your side.
Definition: “Your luck is in” means that you are in a period of good luck or success.
Example: With the way everything is going for her, it feels like her luck is in.
Explanation: This phrase suggests that circumstances are aligning in your favor at a particular moment in time, bringing good fortune.
In a sentence: “I can tell you’re on a winning streak—your luck is in!”
Other ways to say:
- You’re on a roll
- Things are going your way
- It’s your time to shine
- The stars are aligned
- You’ve got the magic touch
4. A Stroke of Luck
A stroke of luck refers to an unexpected event or opportunity that brings good fortune.
Definition: This idiom is used when something lucky happens by chance.
Example: He had a stroke of luck when he found a $100 bill on the street.
Explanation: It implies that luck has struck unexpectedly, often in a surprising and fortunate way.
In a sentence: “Winning the lottery was a complete stroke of luck; I never expected it.”
Other ways to say:
- A twist of fate
- A lucky break
- A lucky turn
- Pure chance
- A fortunate accident
5. On a Roll
Being “on a roll” means you’re experiencing a streak of good luck or success.
Definition: This idiom describes a period where things seem to be going well consistently.
Example: He’s been on a roll with his work projects lately—everything’s turning out great.
Explanation: It evokes the image of a ball rolling downhill, gathering speed and momentum, which mirrors the way success builds upon itself during good times.
In a sentence: “She’s been on a roll lately, winning every game and acing every test.”
Other ways to say:
- In the zone
- On fire
- Riding high
- At the top of your game
- In full swing
6. Knock on Wood
This idiom is used when you want to avoid tempting fate or to ensure good luck continues.
Definition: “Knock on wood” is a superstition used to prevent bad luck after talking about good fortune.
Example: I’ve been healthy all year, knock on wood.
Explanation: The phrase comes from the belief that knocking on wood would ward off evil spirits and prevent misfortune from striking after expressing good luck.
In a sentence: “I haven’t missed a single day of work this month, knock on wood!”
Other ways to say:
- Touch wood
- Hope it stays that way
- Fingers crossed
- Don’t jinx it
- Here’s hoping
7. To Have the Midas Touch
This idiom suggests that everything someone touches turns into gold or success.
Definition: The “Midas touch” refers to someone who is extremely lucky or successful in everything they do.
Example: She has the Midas touch; every business venture she starts becomes a success.
Explanation: Derived from King Midas in Greek mythology, who turned everything he touched into gold, this expression reflects someone who seems to have an extraordinary ability to succeed.
In a sentence: “He’s got the Midas touch when it comes to investments—everything he touches turns into gold.”
Other ways to say:
- A born winner
- Touch of gold
- Success magnet
- Master of success
- Lucky streak
8. Fortune Favors the Bold
This idiom means that people who take risks are more likely to experience good luck.
Definition: “Fortune favors the bold” suggests that luck will often be on the side of those who are brave enough to take chances.
Example: I wasn’t sure if I should apply for the job, but I remembered that fortune favors the bold and went for it.
Explanation: This idiom is encouraging those who might hesitate to take action, reminding them that good luck often comes to those who take risks.
In a sentence: “Starting my own business felt scary, but I knew fortune favors the bold.”
Other ways to say:
- Dare to succeed
- Take a chance
- Go big or go home
- No guts, no glory
- Brave the odds
9. Lucky Break
A “lucky break” refers to an unexpected moment of good fortune that dramatically improves a situation.
Definition: This idiom describes a favorable event that happens by chance and significantly changes someone’s circumstances for the better.
Example: He got a lucky break when he was hired by the company on the spot.
Explanation: This phrase implies that luck intervened and gave someone an opportunity they didn’t expect.
In a sentence: “The lucky break he got with that promotion was exactly what he needed.”
Other ways to say:
- Lucky turn
- Fortuitous event
- A stroke of luck
- Breakthrough moment
- Windfall
10. The Sky’s the Limit
When someone says “the sky’s the limit,” they are expressing the idea that there are no limits to what someone can achieve, especially with good fortune.
Definition: This idiom suggests that a person has unlimited potential or opportunities.
Example: With her talent and drive, the sky’s the limit for her future.
Explanation: The expression implies that there are endless possibilities available to someone who is ready to seize them.
In a sentence: “With the way she’s progressing, the sky’s the limit for her career.”
Other ways to say:
- No limits
- Endless possibilities
- The world’s your oyster
- Aim high
- The future’s bright
11. A Feather in Your Cap
This idiom refers to an achievement or success that adds to someone’s reputation or good fortune.
Definition: “A feather in your cap” is used to describe an accomplishment that brings pride and recognition.
Example: Winning the championship was a real feather in her cap.
Explanation: This phrase is often used to acknowledge a significant achievement that enhances one’s prestige or honor.
In a sentence: “Getting the promotion was a real feather in his cap after years of hard work.”
Other ways to say:
- A great accomplishment
- A notable achievement
- A crowning glory
- A badge of honor
- A significant milestone
12. The Luck of the Draw
This idiom refers to a situation where luck plays a significant role in the outcome, with no control over it.
Definition: “The luck of the draw” describes how outcomes, especially random events, are based entirely on chance.
Example: He got the promotion purely by the luck of the draw, as they picked names out of a hat.
Explanation: This phrase highlights the randomness and unpredictability of certain situations, suggesting that luck is the deciding factor.
In a sentence: “It was just the luck of the draw that I ended up with the best seat on the plane.”
Other ways to say:
- By chance
- A random pick
- Pure luck
- A fortunate twist of fate
- A matter of fate
13. To Sail Through
To “sail through” something means to accomplish a task with ease and good fortune.
Definition: This idiom suggests completing something effortlessly, often as a result of good luck or favorable circumstances.
Example: She sailed through her final exams without breaking a sweat.
Explanation: The phrase evokes the image of a ship moving smoothly across calm waters, which symbolizes an easy, trouble-free journey.
In a sentence: “He sailed through the job interview, answering all the questions perfectly.”
Other ways to say:
- Breeze through
- Pass with flying colors
- Cruise through
- Glide through
- Zip through
14. In the Right Place at the Right Time
This idiom suggests that someone is fortunate because they were in the perfect position when opportunity struck.
Definition: “In the right place at the right time” refers to being lucky enough to be present when a good opportunity arises.
Example: He was in the right place at the right time to land that big client.
Explanation: This expression emphasizes the idea that success often comes down to timing and being present for opportunities when they appear.
In a sentence: “She was in the right place at the right time when the company was hiring for her dream role.”
Other ways to say:
- Right place, right moment
- A fortunate coincidence
- At the perfect moment
- Timing is everything
- Luck was on your side
15. A Lucky Star
When someone is said to have a “lucky star,” it means they are under the influence of good fortune.
Definition: “A lucky star” refers to the belief that a person is blessed with special luck or fate guiding them.
Example: Ever since she started her new business, she’s had a lucky star guiding her every move.
Explanation: This phrase is often used to describe someone who seems to always experience good things happening to them, as though they have a protective or guiding force of luck.
In a sentence: “He always seems to find good opportunities—he must have a lucky star.”
Other ways to say:
- Under a lucky spell
- Guided by fate
- Blessed with good fortune
- Born under a lucky sign
- Favored by fortune
16. A Roll of the Dice
This idiom refers to the idea of taking a chance with good luck or bad luck, similar to the randomness of rolling dice.
Definition: “A roll of the dice” suggests that success or failure is up to chance, with unpredictable outcomes.
Example: Starting your own business is often a roll of the dice, but the rewards can be great.
Explanation: The phrase comes from the world of gambling, where dice rolls are random and cannot be predicted, reflecting the uncertainty of life’s outcomes.
In a sentence: “Choosing to invest in the stock market is always a roll of the dice, but you might get lucky.”
Other ways to say:
- Taking a chance
- A gamble
- Playing your cards right
- A risky move
- A shot in the dark
17. A Golden Opportunity
A “golden opportunity” is an exceptionally good chance to achieve success or good fortune.
Definition: This idiom describes a rare and valuable opportunity that should be seized.
Example: Moving to New York was a golden opportunity for his career.
Explanation: The phrase highlights the uniqueness and rarity of a chance, suggesting that it’s a once-in-a-lifetime type of opportunity.
In a sentence: “When they offered her the promotion, she knew it was a golden opportunity she couldn’t pass up.”
Other ways to say:
- Once-in-a-lifetime chance
- A prime opportunity
- A rare opening
- A valuable chance
- A life-changing moment
18. Against All Odds
This idiom expresses the idea of succeeding or achieving something despite facing great challenges or low chances of success.
Definition: “Against all odds” means achieving success despite unfavorable conditions or a difficult situation.
Example: She managed to pass the exam against all odds after months of studying.
Explanation: The phrase conveys the idea that success was achieved despite a strong possibility of failure, showing that luck or perseverance played a role.
In a sentence: “They won the championship against all odds, defeating the top-ranked team.”
Other ways to say:
- Defying the odds
- Overcoming the impossible
- Against the tide
- Beating the odds
- Surviving the challenge
19. In the Cards
If something is “in the cards,” it means that it is destined to happen, often due to good luck or fate.
Definition: “In the cards” refers to events that seem likely or predestined to occur.
Example: It seemed like getting that promotion was just in the cards for him.
Explanation: This idiom likely originates from fortune-telling, where tarot cards are used to predict future events, suggesting that something is meant to happen.
In a sentence: “It’s always been in the cards for her to become a leader in the company.”
Other ways to say:
- Meant to be
- Written in the stars
- Destined to happen
- Preordained
- In fate’s hands
20. A Lucky Charm
A “lucky charm” refers to an object or symbol believed to bring good luck.
Definition: A “lucky charm” is something people carry or keep close to them in hopes it will bring them good fortune.
Example: She always carries a small rabbit’s foot as her lucky charm.
Explanation: The idea of a lucky charm comes from superstitions and beliefs that certain objects can attract good luck and ward off bad luck.
In a sentence: “He never leaves the house without his lucky charm, a four-leaf clover.”
Other ways to say:
- A good-luck token
- A talisman
- A symbol of fortune
- A lucky object
- A charm for success
Final Thoughts
Using idioms about good luck adds richness and warmth to our language, whether we’re wishing someone well or reflecting on our own good fortune. These expressions offer a wonderful way to communicate success, hope, and encouragement in a meaningful and colorful way.
By understanding their meanings and origins, we can appreciate their power in everyday conversations and use them to inspire positivity in those around us.
FAQs
- What are some common idioms used to wish someone good luck?
- “Break a leg,” “Hit the jackpot,” “Good fortune to you,” and “Knock on wood” are just a few examples of common idioms for wishing luck.
- Why do people say “break a leg” instead of “good luck”?
- “Break a leg” is used in the theater as a superstition. Saying “good luck” is believed to bring bad luck, so “break a leg” is a more favorable alternative.
- Can you use idioms about good luck in professional settings?
- Yes, idioms like “On a roll” or “A lucky break” can be used in professional contexts to convey success and positivity.
- Are idioms about good luck universally understood?
- While idioms are often rooted in specific cultures or languages, many people worldwide are familiar with English idioms about luck, especially those with widespread use like “knock on wood.”
- How can I incorporate these idioms into my daily conversations?
- Use them when wishing someone well, celebrating successes, or talking about opportunities. They add warmth and can make your communication feel more personable and encouraging.
Grace Marie is the creator and writer behind Grammer Guru, a platform dedicated to helping people improve their grammar, writing, and communication skills. With a passion for language and a keen eye for detail, Grace provides clear, practical advice on grammar rules, writing techniques, and common linguistic pitfalls.
