Fingers crossed

Definition

An expression of hope for a positive outcome or good luck, often accompanied by the physical gesture of crossing fingers.

Etymology

This phrase is directly related to 'cross my fingers' and shares the same Christian origins of invoking the cross for divine protection and blessing. The crossed fingers gesture became a shorthand way to ask for luck without lengthy prayers or rituals.

Kelly Says

Unlike 'cross my fingers,' this phrase is often used when wishing someone else luck rather than hoping for one's own fortune. It's become so common in digital communication that it has its own emoji (🤞), showing how traditional superstitious gestures adapt to modern technology.

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