Keep Your Fingers Crossed – Meaning and Examples
Have you ever hoped really hard for something to go well—like waiting for a job offer, a test result, or good weather on your wedding day? In English, you might say, “I’m keeping my fingers crossed!” This hopeful idiom expresses a wish for good luck or a positive outcome, often when you can’t control the situation yourself.
What Does “Keep Your Fingers Crossed” Mean?
“Keep your fingers crossed” means to hope strongly that something good will happen. Think of the gesture: crossing your fingers as a symbol of good luck! The phrase isn’t about the physical act—it’s a warm, common way to say, “I really hope this works out.”
When to Use It
Use this phrase in casual or caring conversations with friends, family, or coworkers when you’re waiting for news, results, or outcomes you can’t control. It’s perfect for talking about interviews, exams, travel plans, health updates, or even the weather. This idiom is informal but universally understood—great for texts, chats, and everyday conversations.
Example Sentences
- I’ve got my interview tomorrow—keep your fingers crossed for me!
- She’s keeping her fingers crossed that her flight isn’t delayed.
- Keep your fingers crossed—the doctor said the results look promising.
- We’re keeping our fingers crossed for rain this weekend.
Mini Dialogue
Alex: “Did you hear back from the university?”
Jamie: “Not yet. I’m keeping my fingers crossed they accepted me!”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t use this phrase when you’re certain of the outcome. It only applies when there’s uncertainty and you’re hoping for the best—not when something is guaranteed.
❌ Don’t say: “I passed the test—I’m keeping my fingers crossed!” (You already know the result.)
✅ Do say: “I took the test yesterday—I’m keeping my fingers crossed I passed.”
Practice Tip
Next time you’re waiting for good news, tell a friend: “Keep your fingers crossed for me!” It’s a natural, friendly way to share your hopes in English.
Final Note
Now you can use “keep your fingers crossed” to express hope and good wishes like a native speaker! It’s a simple, uplifting phrase that connects people through shared optimism. Keep using it—and may your crossed fingers bring you all the luck you need!
