The idiomatic phrase “fingers crossed” is used frequently in everyday conversation and writing. Here you will find the meaning of this expression and the story of its origin. You will also find examples of how to use the expression properly in conversations/statements, followed by suggestions on how you can say the phrase differently and still convey the same meaning.
Fingers Crossed
“Fingers Crossed” Meaning
The idiom “fingers crossed” is typically a comment someone makes in response to a situation where they want good luck for themselves or others after detailing a situation where it is wanted or needed.
Origin of this idiomatic expression
The idiomatic phrase is derived from the actual act of crossing your fingers. The act itself dates back to early Christianity where Christians would cross their fingers as a sign of the cross and their beliefs. Throughout many years, the symbolism for this act came to mean good luck or well wishes instead and the idiomatic phrase was born.
“Fingers Crossed” Examples
Examples in Statements
A statement in the newspaper by a local man.
- “Fingers crossed that this plan to repair the city’s roads will go better than the last.”
A statement made by a hockey player right before his big game.
- “Fingers crossed we will go out and win tonight!”
Examples in Conversations
A conversation between two students in the same class.
- Student 1: Did you do your homework last night?
- Student 2: We had homework? I must have forgotten!
- Student 1: Yeah me too! Fingers crossed we have a substitute today!
A conversation between a mom and her daughter.
- Daughter: I want a puppy.
- Mom: Well, you know your dad doesn’t like animals and doesn’t want a puppy in the house.
- Daughter: Fingers crossed he changes his mind.
More useful examples:
- “Please let it be him,” said Sara, keeping her fingers crossed for luck.
- Let’s just keep our fingers crossed that he is not too bad.
- The exam’s at two. Will you keep your fingers crossed for me?
- Good luck! We’ll keep our fingers crossed for you.
- People have kept their fingers crossed and made do.
- We’re keeping our fingers crossed that she’s going to be OK.
- We’re just hoping the weather stays nice and keeping our fingers crossed.
Other Ways to Say “Fingers Crossed”
As is the case with all idiomatic phrases, there are many ways you can convey the same meaning in more literal terms. Some of the things you could say instead include hopefully, here’s hoping or God willing.
“Fingers Crossed” synonyms:
- Hopefully
- Good luck
- Pray
- Hope for the best
- Best of luck
What does “Fingers Crossed” Mean? | Picture
Last Updated on December 17, 2020