Q
Why do we say 'break a leg' instead of 'good luck'?
A
Expert Answer
Theatrical superstition holds that wishing someone 'good luck' actually brings bad luck, so the opposite is said. Origins may include: wishing enough success for a bow (breaking the leg line), or the Hebrew phrase 'hatzlacha u-bracha' sounding like 'break a leg.'
Key Insight
Theatrical superstition holds that wishing someone 'good luck' actually brings bad luck, so the opposite is said.
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