Fingers Crossed — Meaning, Usage & Examples

What it means...

A way of saying you hope something works out.

When you keep your fingers crossed, you are hoping for good news that is out of your hands.

People say it before results, tests, or big decisions.

Use it when…

When waiting for news about something important like a job or test result
When hoping a plan works out despite the risks
When offering support to someone in an uncertain situation

Don’t confuse with...

"Knock on Wood"

—

Also about warding off bad luck — but it's reactive (after saying something good), not forward-looking

"Hope for the Best"

—

Similar optimism — but fingers crossed implies you've done your part and now you're waiting

"Fingers Crossed"

—

Expressing hope and optimism while waiting for an uncertain outcome

Where you’ll hear it

You’ll hear the "Fingers Crossed" idiom in real life — at work, in relationships, or in the media.

Work & Business

Office Conversations

We submitted the proposal this morning. Fingers crossed they go with us.

Relationships & Social Life

Friends

She's waiting on her test results — fingers crossed everything comes back fine.

Media & Everyday Life

TV Shows / Movies

Fingers crossed the weather holds — we need clear skies for the launch.

‹›

Use it like this

Here’s how to use "Fingers Crossed" idiom naturally in real conversations, with real examples.

Work & Business

Meetings

Boss

Did we hear back from the investors yet?

You

Not yet. Fingers crossed — we should know by end of day.

Relationships

Honest conversations

Friend

How did the interview go?

You

Really well, I think. Fingers crossed — I want this one badly.

Everyday Conversations

Storytelling

Friend

Are you nervous about the results?

You

Very. Fingers crossed it all works out — I've done everything I can.

‹›

Last updated:

October 4, 2026

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