Break a leg meaning ! The following lesson provides what does " break a leg " mean , it's origin and how to use this idiom with useful examples and ESL infographic. Learn the history and usage of the phrase " break a leg ", which is a common way to wish an actor luck in theatre. Find out the possible origins, alternative expressions and modern examples of this idiom. Break a Leg | Meaning , Origin & Examples Published on April 23, 2024 by Gina Rancaño, BA Revised on March 27, 2025 Break a leg is an expression that means “ good luck.” It’s commonly said to actors, dancers, and other performers before their act because of superstitious beliefs that saying “good luck” is unlucky. Examples: Break a leg in a sentence You’re going to do great at your rehearsal. Break a leg , Darlene! Don’t worry. You’ve practiced your lines plenty of times. Now ... Break a leg " Break a leg " is an English-language idiom used in the context of theatre or other performing arts to wish a performer "good luck". An ironic or non-literal saying of uncertain origin (a dead metaphor), [1] "break a leg " is commonly said to actors and musicians before they go on stage to perform or before an audition.