30 Other Ways to Say “Good Luck” (With Examples)

Finding the right words to express good wishes can add a layer of warmth and meaning to any interaction. Whether you are offering encouragement to a friend, family member, colleague, or acquaintance, using thoughtful alternatives to “good luck” can make your message feel more personal and empathetic. In this article, we’ve gathered 30 different ways to say “good luck,” along with examples, definitions, and the best scenarios for each phrase, helping you communicate with care and consideration.

What Does “Good Luck” Mean?

“Good luck” is a common expression used to wish someone success or fortune in an upcoming event, task, or journey. It’s a simple way to show support, but using more specific phrases can convey deeper empathy and thoughtfulness.

Is It Professional/Polite to Say “Good Luck”?

Saying “good luck” is generally polite and acceptable in most settings, but it may not always be the most professional choice depending on the context. Some professional environments might appreciate a more formal or specific form of encouragement. This is where alternatives come in handy to ensure your message fits the occasion.

Pros and Cons of Saying “Good Luck”

Pros:

• Simple and universally understood.
• Warm and supportive.
• Appropriate for most casual situations.

Cons:

• Can feel impersonal or generic.
• May not always align with the tone of a more formal or professional setting.
• Repetitive if used too often.

Synonyms For Good Luck

1. Break a Leg
2. Wishing You All the Best
3. You’ve Got This!
4. May the Force Be With You
5. Best of Luck
6. I’m Rooting for You
7. Good Luck and Godspeed
8. Fingers Crossed
9. Knock ‘Em Dead
10. May You Find Success
11. Here’s to Your Success
12. Wishing You a Bright Future
13. May Your Dreams Come True
14. Hope You Crush It
15. Sending Positive Vibes
16. May Luck Be in Your Favor
17. Go Get ‘Em
18. Wishing You Every Success
19. Wishing You Good Fortune
20. I Believe in You
21. You’ve Got This Covered
22. Best Wishes
23. Sending You Strength
24. Here’s to Great Things
25. Keep Smiling and Succeed
26. May You Be Blessed with Success
27. Good Luck on Your Journey
28. Make It Happen
29. Go for It
30. Have a Great One

1. Break a Leg

Definition: An expression used to wish someone good luck, especially in the context of a performance or presentation.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase originated in the theater, where saying “good luck” was considered bad luck. “Break a leg” is a way to wish actors success without invoking negative omens.

Scenario Examples:

• “Break a leg at your audition today!”
• “Good luck on your performance—break a leg!”

Best Use: For someone performing or undertaking an event that requires a display of skill or talent.

Tone: Playful, informal, supportive.

Additional Notes: Mostly used in theatrical or artistic contexts, but can be extended to other situations requiring a “performance” of sorts.

2. Wishing You All the Best

Definition: A warm way to wish someone good fortune in their endeavors.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase is versatile and can be used for almost any situation, whether personal or professional.

Scenario Examples:

• “I’m wishing you all the best in your new job!”
• “Wishing you all the best as you travel abroad!”

Best Use: General situations where you want to express heartfelt encouragement.

Tone: Warm, sincere, positive.

Additional Notes: A great all-around expression for both professional and personal use.

3. You’ve Got This!

Definition: A motivational and encouraging phrase aimed at bolstering someone’s confidence.

Detailed Explanation: This expression conveys confidence in the person’s abilities, making it a supportive way to wish them success.

Scenario Examples:

• “Don’t worry about the interview—you’ve got this!”
• “You’ve got this! I know you’ll ace the test.”

Best Use: When the person needs a confidence boost or is feeling nervous.

Tone: Uplifting, supportive, energetic.

Additional Notes: Ideal for situations where the person might be facing a challenge but has the skills to overcome it.

4. May the Force Be With You

Definition: A phrase popularized by the “Star Wars” franchise, meaning to wish someone strength and success.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase draws on the idea of an unseen force guiding and supporting someone, making it a fun and empowering alternative to “good luck.”

Scenario Examples:

• “May the force be with you on your final exam!”
• “I’m wishing you the best—may the force be with you!”

Best Use: For fans of “Star Wars” or in a casual, playful setting.

Tone: Fun, enthusiastic, informal.

Additional Notes: Best for someone who shares an appreciation for the “Star Wars” series.

5. Best of Luck

Definition: A slightly more formal way of wishing someone good luck, emphasizing positivity.

Detailed Explanation: This expression conveys warmth and well wishes, often used when the person is facing something significant or important.

Scenario Examples:

• “Best of luck with your new venture!”
• “Best of luck on your road trip!”

Best Use: When you want to convey good wishes but prefer a slightly more formal approach.

Tone: Warm, formal, thoughtful.

Additional Notes: Suitable for both personal and professional situations.

6. I’m Rooting for You

Definition: A phrase that conveys support and encouragement, implying that you are actively hoping for the person’s success.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase conveys a sense of loyalty and active support, as if you are cheering the person on like a fan at a sporting event.

Scenario Examples:

• “I’m rooting for you to get that promotion!”
• “You’ve got this—I’m rooting for you every step of the way!”

Best Use: When you want to show your active support in a more personal or informal context.

Tone: Friendly, supportive, encouraging.

Additional Notes: Great for close friends, family, or teammates.

7. Good Luck and Godspeed

Definition: A formal and somewhat old-fashioned way to wish someone success and a safe journey.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase often implies that the person is about to embark on an important journey, either literally or metaphorically, and wishes them divine protection and guidance.

Scenario Examples:

• “Good luck and Godspeed on your trip abroad!”
• “I’m wishing you good luck and Godspeed as you begin your new adventure.”

Best Use: Used when someone is embarking on a significant or life-changing event, like a journey, new job, or a major decision.

Tone: Respectful, formal, sincere.

Additional Notes: Best used in more serious or traditional settings.

8. Fingers Crossed

Definition: A casual way to express hope for someone’s success, often accompanied by the physical gesture of crossing one’s fingers.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase comes from the superstitious belief that crossing one’s fingers brings good luck, and it’s often used to express hope for a positive outcome.

Scenario Examples:

• “Fingers crossed for your interview!”
• “I’m keeping my fingers crossed that you get the job!”

Best Use: Informal, supportive settings where you want to express hope for someone’s success.

Tone: Hopeful, casual, optimistic.

Additional Notes: More informal and light-hearted than other alternatives.

9. Knock ‘Em Dead

Definition: An energetic and enthusiastic way to wish someone success, particularly in performance or competitive situations.

Detailed Explanation: This expression encourages someone to perform at their best and exceed expectations, often used in situations requiring strength, confidence, or skill.

Scenario Examples:

• “Go out there and knock ‘em dead at your speech!”
• “Knock ‘em dead in your audition—show them what you’ve got!”

Best Use: When the person is about to face a challenge or perform in front of others.

Tone: Energetic, confident, upbeat.

Additional Notes: Often used when someone is heading into a high-energy situation like a performance or competition.

10. May You Find Success

Definition: A formal, respectful way to wish someone good luck in their endeavors.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase wishes the person well in their quest for success, focusing more on the journey and the outcome rather than the process.

Scenario Examples:

• “May you find success in your new role at the company!”
• “I hope you find success with your new project!”

Best Use: Professional, formal situations, or when you want to offer a respectful and thoughtful message.

Tone: Formal, respectful, sincere.

Additional Notes: Appropriate for formal occasions or professional settings where you want to convey a sense of genuine good wishes.

11. Here’s to Your Success

Definition: A toast-like phrase used to express good wishes for someone’s future endeavors.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase is often used in celebratory contexts, such as before a big event or project, and is a way of expressing support and good wishes.

Scenario Examples:

• “Here’s to your success in this new chapter of your life!”
• “Here’s to your success in your new business venture!”

Best Use: When offering well wishes in a celebratory or milestone context.

Tone: Optimistic, celebratory, supportive.

Additional Notes: Ideal for informal settings or when celebrating a significant change or milestone.

12. Wishing You a Bright Future

Definition: A warm and encouraging way to wish someone success in their long-term goals.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase focuses on the future and is best used when someone is embarking on a new journey, career, or chapter in life.

Scenario Examples:

• “Congratulations on your graduation! Wishing you a bright future ahead!”
• “Wishing you a bright future in your new company.”

Best Use: When someone is starting a new phase of their life.

Tone: Encouraging, hopeful, warm.

Additional Notes: Often used in formal or celebratory situations, such as graduations or career changes.

13. May Your Dreams Come True

Definition: A heartfelt way to wish someone success in achieving their aspirations.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase is often used when someone is working toward a personal or professional dream. It conveys deep support and encouragement.

Scenario Examples:

• “I know how hard you’ve worked—may your dreams come true!”
• “May your dreams come true as you embark on this exciting journey.”

Best Use: When someone is pursuing a personal passion or lifelong goal.

Tone: Warm, heartfelt, inspiring.

Additional Notes: Suitable for close friends, family, or significant milestones.

14. Hope You Crush It

Definition: A casual and energetic way to wish someone success.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase is often used in informal settings where enthusiasm and excitement are key.

Scenario Examples:

• “Hope you crush it in your job interview!”
• “Go out there and crush it on stage!”

Best Use: When someone needs a boost of confidence before a performance or challenge.

Tone: Energetic, motivating, casual.

Additional Notes: Best for informal situations, not ideal for professional use.

15. Sending Positive Vibes

Definition: A warm and friendly way to wish someone success and good energy.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase implies that you are mentally supporting the person and wishing them a positive outcome.

Scenario Examples:

• “Sending positive vibes for your big meeting today!”
• “I’m sending you all the positive vibes for your new adventure!”

Best Use: When you want to express emotional support along with good wishes.

Tone: Uplifting, warm, friendly.

Additional Notes: Popular in modern, casual conversations and texts.

16. May Luck Be in Your Favor

Definition: A slightly dramatic way to wish someone good fortune.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase gained popularity from “The Hunger Games” but can be used in various situations where luck is involved.

Scenario Examples:

• “May luck be in your favor during the competition!”
• “I hope everything goes well—may luck be in your favor!”

Best Use: When someone is facing a competition or risky situation.

Tone: Formal, dramatic, optimistic.

Additional Notes: Can be playful if used with a lighthearted tone.

17. Go Get ‘Em

Definition: A direct and motivational way to encourage someone.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase expresses confidence in the person’s abilities and pushes them to take action.

Scenario Examples:

• “Your presentation is going to be great—go get ’em!”
• “Go get ’em in your basketball game tonight!”

Best Use: When encouraging someone to take action confidently.

Tone: Motivational, energetic, informal.

Additional Notes: Best used in sports, competitions, or action-oriented situations.

18. Wishing You Every Success

Definition: A formal way to wish someone ongoing success.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase is commonly used in professional or formal settings when expressing long-term well-wishes.

Scenario Examples:

• “Wishing you every success in your new position!”
• “I truly hope you achieve all your goals—wishing you every success!”

Best Use: Professional and formal situations.

Tone: Formal, respectful, sincere.

Additional Notes: Often used in letters, emails, and formal messages.

19. Wishing You Good Fortune

Definition: A polite and slightly formal way to wish someone luck.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase conveys good wishes while maintaining a professional or refined tone.

Scenario Examples:

• “Wishing you good fortune in your business endeavors.”
• “May you have good fortune in all your future projects!”

Best Use: When you want to sound thoughtful and slightly formal.

Tone: Polite, warm, refined.

Additional Notes: More commonly used in written communication than spoken.

Read More: 30 Other Ways to Say “Please See Attached” (With Examples)

20. I Believe in You

Definition: A strong, personal way to express faith in someone’s abilities.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase reassures someone that they have the skills and talent needed to succeed.

Scenario Examples:

• “You’re going to do great—I believe in you!”
• “I believe in you, and I know you’ll achieve your goals.”

Best Use: When someone needs a confidence boost.

Tone: Encouraging, supportive, heartfelt.

Additional Notes: Best used for close friends, family, or mentees.

21. You’ve Got This Covered

Definition: A confident way of reassuring someone about their success.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase implies that the person is well-prepared and capable of handling the situation.

Scenario Examples:

• “No need to stress, you’ve got this covered!”
• “I know you’ve been preparing—trust yourself, you’ve got this covered.”

Best Use: When reassuring someone before a big moment.

Tone: Supportive, reassuring, confident.

Additional Notes: Works well for personal and professional encouragement.

22. Best Wishes

Definition: A classic and versatile way to express good luck.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase is commonly used in both personal and professional settings to wish someone well.

Scenario Examples:

• “Best wishes for your new job!”
• “Sending best wishes as you embark on this journey.”

Best Use: A broad and general phrase suitable for most situations.

Tone: Polite, formal, warm.

Additional Notes: Common in greeting cards, emails, and formal goodbyes.

23. Sending You Strength

Definition: A compassionate phrase used when someone needs courage or resilience.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase is ideal when someone is facing a challenge that requires inner strength, not just luck.

Scenario Examples:

• “I know this is a tough time—sending you strength.”
• “You’re going to do great, sending you strength and positivity.”

Best Use: When someone is facing a difficult situation or personal challenge.

Tone: Supportive, empathetic, heartfelt.

Additional Notes: Best for personal situations where encouragement is needed.

24. Here’s to Great Things

Definition: A celebratory way to express optimism for someone’s future.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase is often used in toasts or when acknowledging someone’s new journey, career, or opportunity.

Scenario Examples:

• “You’re starting something amazing—here’s to great things ahead!”
• “Here’s to great things in your new career!”

Best Use: When celebrating new beginnings or achievements.

Tone: Positive, uplifting, celebratory.

Additional Notes: Best suited for professional achievements, promotions, or personal milestones.

25. Keep Smiling and Succeed

Definition: A motivational phrase that encourages someone to stay positive while striving for success.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive attitude along the journey to success.

Scenario Examples:

• “You’ve worked so hard—keep smiling and succeed!”
• “No matter what happens, keep smiling and succeed!”

Best Use: When encouraging someone who is facing a challenge or transition.

Tone: Inspirational, positive, supportive.

Additional Notes: Great for both personal and professional encouragement.

26. May You Be Blessed with Success

Definition: A heartfelt phrase that combines well wishes with a spiritual element.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase suggests that success is a blessing and expresses hope that the person will achieve it.

Scenario Examples:

• “May you be blessed with success in all your endeavors.”
• “Wishing you happiness and prosperity—may you be blessed with success!”

Best Use: In formal, religious, or deeply personal contexts.

Tone: Respectful, warm, spiritual.

Additional Notes: Often used in religious or cultural settings where blessings are common.

27. Good Luck on Your Journey

Definition: A thoughtful way to wish someone success in a new adventure or life change.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase emphasizes both luck and the excitement of embarking on something new.

Scenario Examples:

• “You’re off to great places—good luck on your journey!”
• “Good luck on your journey in your new career!”

Best Use: When someone is moving, changing jobs, or starting a major life transition.

Tone: Encouraging, warm, heartfelt.

Additional Notes: Best used when wishing someone well for long-term success rather than a single event.

28. Make It Happen

Definition: A motivational phrase that encourages someone to take control of their success.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase inspires action and confidence, reinforcing that success is within the person’s power.

Scenario Examples:

• “You have the skills—now go make it happen!”
• “You’ve prepared so much—make it happen!”

Best Use: When motivating someone to take action toward their goal.

Tone: Confident, motivational, direct.

Additional Notes: Best for people who need an extra push to go after their dreams.

29. Go for It

Definition: A simple yet powerful way to encourage someone to take a chance.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase conveys excitement and motivation, urging the person to take a leap of faith.

Scenario Examples:

• “You’ve got this opportunity—go for it!”
• “No second-guessing—just go for it!”

Best Use: When someone is considering taking action but needs reassurance.

Tone: Motivating, energetic, supportive.

Additional Notes: Works well in informal conversations, especially for last-minute encouragement.

30. Have a Great One

Definition: A casual, friendly way to wish someone a positive experience.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase is broad enough to fit different situations and can be used when parting ways.

Scenario Examples:

• “Enjoy your trip—have a great one!”
• “Big day ahead? Have a great one!”

Best Use: When saying goodbye while wishing someone well.

Tone: Friendly, casual, warm.

Additional Notes: Ideal for everyday use in casual interactions.

Conclusion

Choosing the right phrase to wish someone well can add a personal and meaningful touch to your words. While “good luck” is a classic option, using a more tailored alternative can make your message feel more thoughtful and specific to the situation. Whether you’re cheering on a friend, supporting a coworker, or offering encouragement to a loved one, these alternatives will help you communicate with warmth, sincerity, and confidence.

FAQs 

1. Is it okay to say “Good luck” in formal settings?

Yes, “Good luck” is generally fine in formal situations, but for a more polished tone, you might say something like, “I wish you all the best” or “Wishing you success.”

2. How can I wish someone good luck in a professional email?

You can say, “Best of luck with your presentation,” or “I wish you the best of success in your upcoming meeting.”

3. What’s a more casual way to say “Good luck”?

You can use phrases like, “You’ve got this!” or “Break a leg!”

4. Can I say “Good luck” for something personal like a wedding or birthday?

While “Good luck” can work, for personal events like a wedding or birthday, it’s better to use more tailored wishes like, “Wishing you all the happiness in the world,” or “Enjoy your special day!”

5. Is “Good luck” appropriate before an exam?

Yes, “Good luck” is perfectly fine for exams, but you could also say, “Wishing you the best of luck on your exam!” or “You’ll do great!”