Hals- und Beinbruch!
The German way to say "break a leg" is Hals- und Beinbruch! Wiktionary also lists Mast- und Schotbruch!
Meaning: expression of best wishes to a performer (intj)
Ways to say it
| German |
|---|
| Hals- und Beinbruch! |
| Mast- und Schotbruch! |
This expression is used to wish a performer good luck. You might also hear the informal saying Toi, toi, toi! used to wish someone luck in Germany.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase Hals- und Beinbruch! literally translates to "neck and leg break!"
Did you know?
- The expression Toi, toi, toi! is often accompanied by the custom of spitting three times over one's shoulder or on the floor to ward off bad luck.
- The phrase Hals- und Beinbruch! is used as a 'reverse psychology' charm, based on the superstition that naming a disaster prevents it from happening.
- The nautical variation Mast- und Schotbruch! swaps the body parts for parts of a ship, specifically the mast and the sheet. It is used to wish someone luck in a maritime context.
Examples in context
- Hals- und Beinbruch!Break a leg!This sentence is useful for seeing how to use Hals- und Beinbruch!Tatoeba #1496962 by al_ex_an_der, translation #2795777 by sundown
- Ich wünsche Ihnen alles Gute für Ihre Vorstellung!I wish you all the best for your performance!
- Viel Spaß bei der Aufführung! Hals- und Beinbruch!Have fun in the performance! Break a leg!
- Toi, toi, toi für deine Show heute Abend!Break a leg for your show tonight!
Example conversation
Felix is wishing Laura luck before her piano recital.
- FelixBist du bereit für das Konzert, Laura?Are you ready for the concert, Laura?
- LauraJa, aber ich bin ein bisschen nervös.Yes, but I am a bit nervous.
- FelixDu schaffst das. Hals- und Beinbruch!You can do it. Break a leg!
- LauraDanke, Felix! Das ist lieb von dir.Thanks, Felix! That is sweet of you.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “break a leg” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
