40+ Creative Expressions for “Good Luck”

“Best of luck” synonyms for every situation

This article was co-authored by Tami Claytor and by wikiHow staff writer, Bailey Bujnosek, BA. Tami Claytor is an Etiquette Coach, Image Consultant, and the Owner of Always Appropriate Image and Etiquette Consulting in New York, New York. With over 20 years of experience, Tami specializes in teaching etiquette classes to individuals, students, companies, and community organizations. Tami has spent decades studying cultures through her extensive travels across five continents and has created cultural diversity workshops to promote social justice and cross-cultural awareness. She holds a BA in Economics with a concentration in International Relations from Clark University. Tami studied at the Ophelia DeVore School of Charm and the Fashion Institute of Technology, where she earned her Image Consultant Certification.

There are 23 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page.

This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources.

There are many situations where you may want to wish someone good luck. The phrase “good luck,” however, isn’t the only way to convey your well wishes. Get creative and personal with other ways to say good luck that suit your relationship with the person and the situation they’re in. Whether you want to be informal, professional, funny, or serious, read on for alternative ways to say “good luck” to everyone in your life.

1. Best of luck!
2. Break a leg!
3. Fingers crossed for you!
4. Best of luck with your future endeavors.
5. May your hard work continue to pay off.
6. May the force be with you.
7. Bonne chance!

1. 

   Break a leg! While it sounds like the opposite of good luck, this idiom is a form of well-wishing to performers. It has its origins in the theater, where superstition held that saying “good luck” to a performer would bring them bad luck. Now, “Break a leg!” is a common expression to tell any performer.[1]

   • For example, say, “I can’t wait to see the show. Break a leg!”
   • It’s best to avoid using this expression when talking to an athlete since the risk of injury is greater. Instead, say it to friends or family before a theatrical, comedic, or other performance.

2. Go get ‘em! Use this expression to let a friend or family member know you believe in them. Rather than emphasizing the chance element of the situation by saying, “Good luck,” you’re firing them up to give it their best. Use this idiom before your athlete friend’s big game or a family member’s job interview.

   • For example, tell someone, “It’s your time to shine. Go get ‘em!”
   • This phrase supposedly stems from the longer chant, “Go get ‘em, tiger.” This saying originated at a 1968 Detroit Tigers baseball game.[2]
     Keep the “tiger” or drop it for a more general well-wish.

3. Crush it! Tell those close to you good luck by encouraging them to do well. This way, you show them you believe in their abilities and help them get hyped up for whatever challenge they face. “Crush it!” is a nice casual idiom that expresses your faith in someone without referring to the element of luck.[3]

   • For example, before an exam, say, “This is what you’ve been studying for. Crush it!”

4. Knock ‘em dead. While it sounds morbid, this idiom simply encourages someone to wow others with their performance. Picture the “‘em” or “them” in question as a judge or audience that’s so impressed by the performance that it stuns them. Because this is a casual idiom, it’s best said to close friends or family.[4]

   • For example, tell someone, “It’s showtime! Knock ‘em dead.”

5. Blow them away! Use this idiom to encourage someone without mentioning the chance element of success. This phrase is a good alternative for “good luck” when talking to someone who’s about to do a performance, give a big presentation or pitch, or play in a high-stakes sports game. Just make sure the person you’re talking to isn’t prone to stress—this saying may put more pressure on them.[5]

   • For example, say, “I believe in you. Blow them away!”

6. Fingers crossed for you. Tell someone you’re crossing your fingers for them as a more casual way of saying “Good luck!” This expression refers to the common gesture of crossing your fingers as a form of protection or wishing for a favorable outcome. While the act started as a superstition, the gesture and expression are now lighthearted ways to wish good luck.[6]

   • For example, text a friend, “I have my fingers crossed for you! Let me know what happens.”
   • If you’re sending your good luck wishes via text or email, add lucky emojis like the four-leaf clover 🍀, the horseshoe-shaped magnet 🧲, and crossed fingers 🤞.

7. You’ve got this! Say “You’ve got this!” instead of “Good luck!” to let someone know you’re confident they’ll succeed. While “Good luck!” sends hopeful vibes, “You’ve got this!” is more personal and puts the power of the situation in their hands. To sound the most sincere, use this expression around people you know well.

   • For example, before a sports game, tell your friend, “Don’t worry, you’ve got this!”

8. You’re ready for this. Reassure a friend or relative that they’re poised to meet the moment in front of them. Swap the generic “good luck” sentiment for an empowering statement like “You’re ready for this.” This idiom will be most impactful when you know the person and their abilities well.

   • For example, if your child is going away for college, tell them, “You’re ready for this.”

9. You’re going to kill it. While this idiom sounds scary, it’s actually a positive expression. To “kill it” means to do very well at something. Tell friends they’ll “kill it” in various situations, from a test or dance recital to an important performance review.[7]

   • For example, say, “So excited for you! You’re going to kill it.

10. You were made for this. If you want to reference fortune without saying “good luck” directly, try “You were made for this.” The saying suggests that the person you’re talking to was born for whatever task they’re facing. Tell them this phrase to empower and compliment them.

    • For example, before a dancer’s big performance, tell her, “You were made for this moment!”

11. You’ve put in the work. Here’s hoping it’s rewarded! While more wordy, this sentiment tells someone you recognize their effort and hope they reap the benefits. Work being rewarded depends on a mix of effort and luck. Put the emphasis on effort, so your friend or family member feels capable and appreciated.

    • For example, tell them, “I’ve seen you put in the work. Here’s hoping it’s rewarded today!”
    • ”Here’s hoping” is a way of saying, “Here’s to…” It’s like a cheers, in a way.[8]

12. Best of luck! Say “Best of luck!” to let someone know you hope they’ll succeed going forward. This phrase is appropriate for casual use and professional use because it’s generic and simple. To make it more personal, specify what you’re wishing the person the best of luck with.[9]

    • For example, tell a close team member, “Best of luck at your new job!”

13. Sending good vibes your way. If you want to wish good luck to someone who’s spiritually inclined, or otherwise doesn’t believe in luck, talk about good vibes. Tell a friend you’re sending them good vibes to let them know you hope things work out in their favor. Just reserve this message for low-stakes situations like a test—it’s too casual for high-pressure situations like surgery.

    • For example, before a quiz, text a friend, “Sending good vibes your way rn!”

14. Manifesting good luck for you. Use this expression when talking to a spiritual person or to sound poetic. Like sending good vibes, manifesting good luck shows that you’re putting positive energy into the universe. Say this to people that you know believe in manifestation or would understand what you’re saying.

    • For example, tell a friend, “Excited to watch you play today! Manifesting good luck for you.”

15. Wishing you so many blessings. If you’re looking for a religious way to say good luck to someone, reference blessings. Some religious people may not believe in luck, instead having faith in their god’s will.[10]
    Reserve this comment for people you know well—like friends and relatives who are part of the same religious organization as you.

    • For example, when someone’s starting a new job, tell them, “I’m wishing you so many blessings. You can do it!”

1. 

   Wishing you good luck in all your future endeavors. Etiquette coach Tami Claytor agrees this message is appropriate for most workplace occasions—for example, a promotion, a retirement, or a change in career paths. Say this to a coworker, supervisor, or student who you’re saying goodbye to. You’ll sound polite and professional.

   • For example, write this message on a card for an employee who’s leaving for a new role.
   • For a shorter version of the phrase, say, “Good luck in all your future endeavors.”

2. Best of luck on your presentation/in your new role! Instead of simply saying good luck, be more specific. Tell a colleague or employee “Best of luck…” on any upcoming task or their new position. You’ll let them know you believe in them without being too casual.

   • For example, if they mentioned they have a big pitch coming up, say, “Best of luck with your pitch!”

3. Sending good luck to you on your continuing professional journey. If you’re a supervisor, manager, or other kind of boss, use this phrase to send well wishes to departing employees. Because this is a formal message, it’s best used when referring to someone in a career role. It might be too formal when someone is departing from a job that they don’t see as part of their long-term career, like a summer job at an ice cream parlor.

   • For example, tell a team member who’s taken on a new role, “Sending good luck to you on your continuing professional journey.”

4. I wish you success in your future endeavors. Some people might perceive “good luck” as too vague or generic. Make your well wishes more specific and personal by telling a departing colleague, employee, or graduating student that you hope they find success. They’re sure to appreciate your well wishes.

   • For example, tell a departing employee, “You were a valued team member. Wishing you success in your future endeavors.”
   • Shorten the phrase to “Wishing you success in your future endeavors.“

5. I know you’ll achieve great things. When speaking to an employee, coworker, or student you were close with, include an inspiring message that shows your hope for their future. By saying, “I know you’ll achieve great things,” you’re letting them know you believe in them as they take a new step in their professional or academic career.

   • For example, sign off a farewell email with, “Best of luck going forward. I know you’ll achieve great things!”

6. Wishing you the best as you continue on your academic journey. Tell a student who’s graduating or moving to a new grade that you wish them well. This message is formal and more positive than a simple “Good luck!” Make it more personal by mentioning their new school or grade level.

   • For example, tell a former student, “Wishing you the best as you continue on your academic journey. Keep up the good work!”
   • Shorten the phrase while keeping the meaning by saying, “Best of luck in your next grade/at your next school.”

7. May your hard work continue to pay off. Praise a departing student or a close team member who’s recently got a promotion using this message. While well-intentioned, praising good luck tells someone that their success is out of their hands. Referencing their hard work, meanwhile, frames success as a product of their dedication and effort.

   • For example, write in a card for a coworker who’s been promoted, “May your hard work continue to pay off.”

8. Best wishes as you begin your new chapter. Use this phrase to be more elaborate and specific than when saying “Good luck!” Because you’re referencing a new chapter, this message is appropriate when someone is changing career paths, starting a new job, or graduating from your school or university.

   • For example, when talking to a graduating student of yours, say, “Best wishes as you begin your new chapter.”

1. 

   “May the odds be ever in your favor.” Amuse your book-loving friends with this quote from the book The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. Use it in casual scenarios where things are up to chance, like trying to find the perfect dress for a dance or get presale concert tickets.[11]

   • For example, text a friend, “I heard you’re trying to win a first edition of your favorite book. May the odds be ever in your favor!”
   • Avoid this phrase when the situation is serious, such as when you want to wish someone luck before a surgery or a court case.

2. “May the force be with you.” Say “Good luck!” with a galactic spin by quoting this iconic line from the Star Wars film franchise. While this phrase is pretty well-known, some people might not get it. Try to use it with people who you know will get the reference—and maybe include a GIF of a character saying the line, if you’re texting.

   • For example, say, “You’re going to crush that test! May the force be with you.”

3. “Good Luck, Babe!” If you want to wish a pop music fan good luck, reference the song of the same name by Chappell Roan. Note that the context of the song is cheekily wishing someone good luck with denying their sexuality to themselves and others.[12]
   However, a fan of Roan will likely appreciate the reference as a message of good luck.

   • For example, text a friend, “Good luck, babe!” with a snippet of the song before they take a test.

4. “Luck be a lady tonight.” Quote the classic song “Luck Be A Lady” by Frank Sinatra to wish someone luck before a performance, a chance situation, or a night at the casino. If your friend is a fan of old music, they’ll appreciate your reference and the well-wishes you’re sending.[13]

   • For example, before you and a friend try to get tickets to a sold-out concert, you could say, “Luck, be a lady tonight!”

5. I’m betting it all on you! No pressure. Get cheeky with a friend or family member using this quip. Instead of simply saying “Good luck,” joke that the stakes are high because you’ve bet on their performance. Only say this in a low-stakes situation, such as before they compete in an early-season sports game. Add “No pressure” to indicate that you’re joking.

   • For example, ahead of a club volleyball game, tell your friend, “Hey, I’m betting it all on you! No pressure.”

6. Don’t forget to wear your lucky socks today. Some people have a lucky garment or accessory, usually socks. If you know a friend who has such an item, reference it when texting or talking with them before an event where good luck is welcome. Even if they don’t have lucky socks, they’ll probably get your meaning with this jokey message.

   • For example, before a job interview that they’re a good candidate for, you can say, “Don’t forget to wear your lucky socks!”

7. Good luck with that! Say this phrase sarcastically when referring to unpleasant tasks. Because it’s sarcastic, don’t say it unless you’re referring to something negative or challenging. Otherwise, it could come off as if you don’t actually wish them luck but that you actually doubt them. Only use this phrase with close friends and family who won’t get offended by sarcasm, but understand your joking intent.[14]

   • For example, if someone tells you they have to bathe their dog who doesn’t like to be bathed, you could say, “Bathing Rex? Haha, good luck with that!”

1. You’re in my thoughts and prayers. Instead of telling someone “Good luck!” in a serious situation, let them know you’re thinking about them another way. If they’re religious, you can mention that they’re in your prayers. Otherwise, stick to a saying like “I’m keeping you in my thoughts.” This phrase is best for when someone is going through a crisis, such as awaiting medical results, facing a surgery, or has to go to court.

   • For example, send someone a thoughtful greeting card with the message, “You’re in my thoughts and prayers. Take care.”

2. You’re going to do great. When talking to a relative or friend who’s uncertain about the outcome of a situation, focus on reassuring them. Instead of wishing them luck, tell them you believe in their abilities. Reserve this version of “Good luck!” for situations where there’s serious pressure, but not life-or-death stakes.

   • For example, tell your child who’s worried about taking the SAT exam, “You’re going to do great!”

3. I’m rooting for you. Swap out “Good luck!” for a message that’s both more personal and more encouraging. By saying “I’m rooting for you,” when someone’s in a situation that requires their strength as well as luck, you let them know you’re in their corner.[15]
   Say this in situations like when someone close to you is recovering from a serious illness or going through a difficult divorce.

   • For example, if a close friend is starting physical therapy, tell them, “I’m rooting for you!”

4. Sending my best wishes to you at this time. When someone is facing an uncertain situation, letting them know you’re thinking of them can mean a lot. While it’s tempting to say “Good luck!” when what they’re facing has an element of chance, best wishes will sound more sincere. Let them know you support them even if things are out of their control.

   • For example, when someone close to you is going in for a major surgery, text them, “I’m sending my best wishes to you today.”
   • Shorten the phrase by saying, “Wishing you all the best.”

5. May fortune smile upon you. Use this classic idiom to poetically wish someone luck during a special occasion, such as a wedding or graduation. When you say you hope fortune ‘smiles’ on someone, you’re saying you hope someone will experience good luck. Fortune is the personification of luck.[16]

   • For example, after your cousin graduates college, send them a card with the greeting, “May fortune smile upon you.”
   • You can also simply say, “May everything work in your favor.”

   EXPERT TIP

   Tami Claytor

   Etiquette Coach Tami Claytor is an Etiquette Coach, Image Consultant, and the Owner of Always Appropriate Image and Etiquette Consulting in New York, New York. With over 20 years of experience, Tami specializes in teaching etiquette classes to individuals, students, companies, and community organizations. Tami has spent decades studying cultures through her extensive travels across five continents and has created cultural diversity workshops to promote social justice and cross-cultural awareness. She holds a BA in Economics with a concentration in International Relations from Clark University. Tami studied at the Ophelia DeVore School of Charm and the Fashion Institute of Technology, where she earned her Image Consultant Certification. Tami Claytor Etiquette Coach

   Give encouragement to someone facing a serious surgery. You don’t have to be somber, but you want to be more serious and encouraging than simply saying, “Good luck!” For example, say, “Everything is going to work out.” You can also send balloons, flowers, or cards.

1. Say “Good luck” by itself. While it seems too short to be a proper standalone sentence, it is a phrase by itself. No need to add a “The” or “A” at the start of the phrase. Just say, “Good luck!”[22]

2. Combine “good luck” with a prepositional phrase. It’s grammatically correct to say “Good luck” on its own, but you can also add a prepositional phrase starting with “with” to specify what you’re wishing someone luck doing.[23]
   For example, you could say “Good luck with your job interview.”

   • Avoid saying “Good luck with that.” This is usually considered sarcastic and could even be seen as rude.

3. Use “good-luck” as a compound adjective. When referring to an object like a rabbit’s foot, horseshoe, socks, or another charm, you can call it a “good-luck charm.” Because “good luck” is a compound adjective, it needs a hyphen when placed before a noun. You could also refer to “good-luck wishes.”

4. Refer to “good luck” as a noun. Tell someone you hope they have good luck by using it as a noun phrase. For example, say, “I hope you have good luck today,” or “Sending good luck your way!”

1. 

   Is good luck one word? No, good luck is two words. “Good” indicates a type of luck—just like you could say “bad luck.” While you’d never say “goodluck,” you hyphenate “good luck” when using it as an adjective before a noun. For example, saying someone has a “good-luck charm.”[24]

2. How can I say “good luck” in a humorous way? Make a pop culture reference by saying a phrase like “The force is with you” or “May the odds be ever in your favor.” Or, joke that you hope someone will do well because you’ve bet a lot of money on their success. For example, say, “I hope you knock this out of the park. I’ve bet my life savings on you.” You can also give someone a box of Lucky Charms cereal as a way to say good luck.

3. 

   How do you say “good luck” in a special way? Personalize your well wishes to the person you’re talking to based on what you’re wishing them luck in. For example, instead of saying, “Good luck!” say “Good luck on your final exam!” If you know the person well, consider giving them a greeting card with your message inside, or buying them their favorite snack so they feel less nervous.

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Source: HIS Education