It would seem that what could be more harmless than wishing someone good luck?
However, in response you may hear: “Don’t jinx it!” or “Don’t say that!”
A fisherman will be offended if you say the magic word before fishing, and a believer asks you not to involve “chance” in a godly matter.
Who and why you shouldn't say "good luck" to
Even in the 21st century, many professions retain superstitions that have their roots in the past.
Fishermen and hunters believe that a direct wish for success will scare off prey.
Instead, they say: “Neither tail nor scales!” or “Neither fluff nor feathers!” and in response it is customary to answer: “To hell!” in order to deceive evil spirits.
Actors consider the phrase "Good luck!" to be a bad omen. Before going on stage, they are wished "Break a leg!" (English: *Break a leg*), which, according to legend, refers to the tradition of bowing so low that the leg "breaks".
Medics and rescuers avoid the word luck, because their work depends on skill, not luck. It is more appropriate to say: "Let everything go smoothly" or "I'm waiting for good news."
Truckers replace their wishes with "No nails, no sticks!", where "nail" means a breakdown, and "stick" means a fine from an inspector.
How to support a person without breaking taboos
If you are not sure about the superstitions of your interlocutor, use neutral phrases:
1. “Good luck!” is a universal wish that is not connected with mysticism.
2. “You can do it!” – an emphasis on confidence in a person’s abilities.
3. “Let everything go as it should” is a neutral formula that suits even skeptics.
4. “With God’s help” – for believers, emphasizing the importance of higher patronage.
5. “I’m waiting for your victories!” is a motivational phrase without mentioning accidents.
