finger crossed

USAGE SUMMARY

"finger crossed" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to express hope or expectation that something will happen. For example, "I'm hoping to get accepted to my top choice college; fingers crossed!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Kitsch said he had turned a lot of work down, "keeping a finger crossed that I was going to get True".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Let the rugby do the talking @EnglandRugby    Keeping finger crossed for @EnglandRugby tonight #TheGameStartsHere  pic.twitter.com/cjM068xrMd During every great story, there is always a stumble or question of faith before the fairytale ending!

Independent

Leeds head coach Brian McDermott: "Kallum has got an ankle injury and hopefully finger crossed he hasn't got a break.

BBC

Hand with first and index finger crossed.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Fingers crossed.

The New York Times

Fingers crossed, yes.

Independent

Fingers crossed, though.

Independent

"Fingers crossed," Kemp said.

The New York Times - Sports

So, fingers crossed".

BBC

She did, fingers crossed.

The New York Times

"Fingers crossed," she said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, remember that "finger crossed" is often used in informal contexts; consider alternatives for more formal settings.

Common error

Avoid using "finger crossed" in formal or professional writing where a more direct and serious tone is expected. Opt for phrases like "I am hopeful" or "We anticipate positive results."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "finger crossed" functions as an interjection or an idiom, typically used to express a wish for good luck or a positive outcome. It conveys a sense of hope and anticipation. As shown by Ludwig, it's often found in news and media, as well as informal contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "finger crossed" is an idiom used to express the hope for a positive outcome. Ludwig AI confirms that it's grammatically correct. While typically used in informal contexts, Ludwig shows examples across news and media, with a neutral level of formality. When a more direct expression of hope is needed or in a professional setting, consider using alternatives like "hoping for the best" or "wishing you luck". Remember, while "finger crossed" is a common expression, context matters for choosing the most effective phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

keeping my fingers crossed

Adding "my" specifies whose fingers are crossed, personalizing the expression of hope.

I'm crossing my fingers

This variant puts it into first person to signify the personal action of crossing fingers.

hoping for the best

This alternative focuses on the act of hoping, emphasizing a general desire for a favorable result.

I hope for the best

This alternative directly expresses the speaker's hope for a positive outcome.

wishing for good luck

This phrase explicitly invokes the concept of luck as a factor in the desired outcome.

I'm hoping it turns out well

This alternative specifies the speaker's desire for a favorable result.

let's hope it goes well

This alternative is more conversational and suggests a shared hope among speakers.

I'm optimistic about it

This phrase conveys a general sense of positivity and confidence regarding the situation.

we're all rooting for you

This phrase expresses support and encouragement, wishing for someone's success.

trusting for a good outcome

The focus is on trusting that the end result is positive.

FAQs

How can I use "finger crossed" in a sentence?

You can use "finger crossed" to express hope for a positive outcome. For instance, "I have a job interview tomorrow; "finger crossed"!"

What does "finger crossed" mean?

The phrase "finger crossed" is an idiom that expresses a hope for good luck or a positive outcome in a situation.

Which is correct, "fingers crossed" or "finger crossed"?

While both forms are used, "fingers crossed" is more common. "Finger crossed" can be used to refer to a single instance of wishing for luck.

What are some alternatives to saying "finger crossed"?

You can use alternatives like "hoping for the best", "wishing you luck", or "I hope so" depending on the context.