Knock on wood

phrase

An action done to ward off bad luck after speaking of good fortune.

I just got a big promotion at work, knock on wood.

Often appears as...

hope to continue this good luck
knock on wood

Usage tips

Idiomatic

phrase

An action done to ward off bad luck after speaking of good fortune.

I just got a big promotion at work, knock on wood.

Often appears as...

hope to continue this good luck
knock on wood

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1

Visual representation of "knock on wood"

Pro Tip 1/3

Superstitious Roots

Originated from ancient beliefs that spirits live in trees and can be called upon for protection.

My interview went great, knock on wood!

Pro Tip 2/3

Informal Use

Most appropriate for casual conversations, not in formal writing or professional settings.

We've always had good weather for our annual picnic, knock on wood.

Pro Tip 3/3

Express Sincerity

Shows you are not boasting and that you acknowledge good fortune can change.

I haven't missed a day of work this year, knock on wood.

Pro Tip 1/3

Superstitious Roots

Originated from ancient beliefs that spirits live in trees and can be called upon for protection.

My interview went great, knock on wood!

Pro Tip 2/3

Informal Use

Most appropriate for casual conversations, not in formal writing or professional settings.

We've always had good weather for our annual picnic, knock on wood.

Pro Tip 3/3

Express Sincerity

Shows you are not boasting and that you acknowledge good fortune can change.

I haven't missed a day of work this year, knock on wood.

Pro Tip 1/3

Superstitious Roots

Originated from ancient beliefs that spirits live in trees and can be called upon for protection.

My interview went great, knock on wood!

Pro Tip 2/3

Informal Use

Most appropriate for casual conversations, not in formal writing or professional settings.

We've always had good weather for our annual picnic, knock on wood.

Pro Tip 3/3

Express Sincerity

Shows you are not boasting and that you acknowledge good fortune can change.

I haven't missed a day of work this year, knock on wood.

Visual representation of the word "Knock on wood"

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