Ways to say it
| Swiss German | Note |
|---|---|
| Viel Glück | |
| Toi toi toi | superstition |
Before an exam, a performance or anything a little risky to jinx by naming it directly, Swiss speakers also say Toi toi toi, much like 'break a leg' in English.
What does it mean word for word?
Viel Glück joins 'much' with 'luck'. Toi toi toi has no literal meaning and is used purely as a superstition-tinged charm.
Which one should you use?
Viel Glück is the plain, everyday wish. Toi toi toi is used specifically to avoid directly wishing luck, which some believe can bring bad luck instead.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Both are casual and warm, fine with friends, family and colleagues.
Is it said differently in some regions?
Both expressions are shared with Standard German and used the same way across German-speaking Switzerland.
How does it change in a sentence?
Neither phrase changes with the person being addressed.
How do you pronounce it?
Glück has a short, rounded ü sound, made with rounded lips, different from the English 'oo'.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Saying Viel Glück to a performer right before going on stage can feel like tempting fate for some. Toi toi toi is the safer superstition in that specific moment.
When do people say it?
Toi toi toi is often accompanied by knocking on wood, a shared European superstition for warding off bad luck after saying something hopeful out loud.
Did you know?
- Toi toi toi has no real meaning as words and is used purely as a spoken charm, similar to the English theatre superstition 'break a leg'.
- Knocking on wood often accompanies Toi toi toi in German-speaking Europe, a shared gesture for warding off bad luck.
Examples in context
- Viel Glück bi dr Prüefig!Good luck with the exam!
- Ich drück dir dHand.I am crossing my fingers for you.
Example conversation
Fabian wishes his sister Ladina luck before her piano recital.
- FabianToi toi toi für hüt Abig.Good luck for tonight.
- LadinaMerci, ich bi scho nervös.Thanks, I am already nervous.
- FabianDu schaffsch das, viel Glück!You will manage it, good luck!
- LadinaMerci vielmal, das hilft.Thank you very much, that helps.
