Saying “good luck” is a quick, familiar way to cheer someone on—but sometimes you want words that sound warmer, smarter, or more personal. Whether you’re sending off a coworker, encouraging a friend before an exam, or comforting a loved one chasing big dreams, variety makes your message stand out.
This guide gives you 30 different ways to say “good luck,” each with meaning, tone, and examples. Use them to fit any mood—from polite and professional to emotional or playful.
Did You Know “Good Luck”?
The phrase “good luck” appeared in English writing around the 15th century. Early sailors, travelers, and actors used it as a charm to call for fortune’s favor. Over time it became a universal blessing for success, courage, and confidence.
What Does “Good Luck” Mean?
At its heart, “good luck” means wishing someone favorable results. It’s more than superstition—it shows faith in their effort, skill, and destiny. You’re saying, “I hope the universe rewards your preparation.”
Professional or Polite Ways to Say “Good Luck”
In offices or academic settings, softer expressions like “Wishing you success,” “All the best,” or “Best wishes on your new role” sound polished and sincere. They encourage without sounding too casual or sentimental.
When to Use “Good Luck”
You can use these phrases whenever someone faces:
- An exam or presentation
- A new job or promotion
- A competition or performance
- A journey or fresh start
- A difficult challenge or decision
Synonyms For “Good Luck”
- Best of Luck
- All the Best
- Wishing You Success
- You’ve Got This
- Fingers Crossed
- Knock ’Em Dead
- Smash It
- Go Get ’Em
- May Fortune Favor You
- Go for Gold
- You’ll Do Great
- You’re Going to Nail It
- Break a Leg
- May the Odds Be Ever in Your Favor
- Hope It Goes Well
- Sending Positive Vibes
- Here’s to Your Success
- Shine Bright
- Wishing You the Best of Luck
- You’re Ready for This
- Go Win It
- Hope You Ace It
- Rooting for You
- You’ll Crush It
- Give It Your All
- You’ve Got What It Takes
- Hope Everything Works Out
- May the Universe Be Kind to You
- Go Make It Happen
- Here’s Hoping for the Best
1. Best of Luck
Definition: A timeless encouragement wishing a person’s effort meets with success and positive outcomes in every possible way they hope for.
Meaning: Expresses confidence, kindness, and optimism toward the person’s challenge or upcoming event.
Tone: Warm and universal.
5 Scenario Examples:
- “Best of luck with your exams—you’ve prepared well.”
- “Best of luck on your first day at work.”
- “Best of luck with your new venture.”
- “Best of luck, I believe in you.”
- “Best of luck—success is around the corner.”
Detailed Explanation: Common yet heartfelt, it fits letters, speeches, or chats. It conveys good wishes without being overly emotional, making it suitable for any audience.
Additional Notes: Perfect balance of friendliness and formality.
2. All the Best
Definition: A short, flexible expression showing care, support, and hope for positive experiences in someone’s next stage.
Meaning: Suggests broad goodwill and lasting happiness, not just momentary success.
Tone: Friendly and neutral.
5 Scenario Examples:
- “All the best with your presentation.”
- “All the best for the future.”
- “All the best on your new journey.”
- “All the best—you’ve earned it.”
- “All the best, stay confident.”
Detailed Explanation: Works in farewells, emails, and cards. It’s short, genuine, and polished, making it a favorite in both social and corporate spaces.
Additional Notes: Excellent for sign-offs and greetings.
3. Wishing You Success
Definition: A refined phrase expressing hope that someone achieves their desired results through skill, dedication, and hard work.
Meaning: Highlights respect and trust in their capabilities.
Tone: Professional and motivational.
5 Scenario Examples:
- “Wishing you success in your new role.”
- “Wishing you success in everything you do.”
- “Wishing you success and growth.”
- “Wishing you success on your journey.”
- “Wishing you success—go shine!”
Detailed Explanation: Ideal for business or academic contexts where encouragement should remain polished. It conveys optimism while keeping a formal tone.
Additional Notes: Great for emails and farewell speeches.
4. You’ve Got This
Definition: A casual phrase expressing belief in someone’s strength and confidence to handle upcoming tasks or obstacles.
Meaning: Instills motivation, reassurance, and courage.
Tone: Energetic and friendly.
5 Scenario Examples:
- “You’ve got this—just stay focused.”
- “You’ve got this; you always deliver.”
- “You’ve got this—keep pushing through.”
- “You’ve got this, believe in yourself.”
- “You’ve got this—show them your best.”
Detailed Explanation: Perfect pep-talk material before tests, interviews, or performances. It motivates without pressure and feels authentic.
Additional Notes: Widely used in coaching and team settings.
5. Fingers Crossed
Definition: A fun, informal expression symbolizing hope that destiny favors someone’s plans or decisions.
Meaning: Combines superstition and support to show genuine hope for success.
Tone: Playful and optimistic.
5 Scenario Examples:
- “Fingers crossed for your audition.”
- “Fingers crossed you get that job.”
- “Fingers crossed everything goes well.”
- “Fingers crossed for good news.”
- “Fingers crossed—let’s hope for the best.”
Detailed Explanation: Expresses cheer and anticipation. It’s casual but supportive, perfect for messages between friends or colleagues.
Additional Notes: Adds a lighthearted tone to serious moments.
6. Knock ’Em Dead
Definition: A slangy, confident phrase urging someone to impress or outperform others spectacularly.
Meaning: Encourages boldness and performance excellence.
Tone: Playful and motivational.
5 Scenario Examples:
- “Knock ’em dead in that interview!”
- “Go onstage and knock ’em dead.”
- “You’ll knock ’em dead today.”
- “Knock ’em dead—you’re unstoppable.”
- “Knock ’em dead, superstar!”
Detailed Explanation: Fun and energetic, often used in performance, sports, or creative industries to hype someone up.
Additional Notes: Best for close friends and informal moments.
7. Smash It
Definition: A modern, British-origin expression meaning to do something brilliantly or exceed expectations completely.
Meaning: Shows trust in someone’s ability to succeed easily.
Tone: Cool and casual.
5 Scenario Examples:
- “Go smash it in your exam.”
- “You’ll smash it like always.”
- “Smash it—show them what you’ve got.”
- “Smash it, champ!”
- “Smash it—no pressure, just confidence.”
Detailed Explanation: Common among younger speakers, it energizes conversations with positivity. Perfect for friendly motivation.
Additional Notes: Informal; avoid in formal emails.
8. Go Get ’Em
Definition: A lively call to action that pushes someone to face their challenge boldly and give their full effort.
Meaning: Encourages courage, enthusiasm, and proactive spirit.
Tone: Energetic and friendly.
5 Scenario Examples:
- “Go get ’em, tiger!”
- “Go get ’em and make us proud.”
- “Go get ’em—show your skills.”
- “Go get ’em—you’ve trained for this.”
- “Go get ’em—believe in yourself.”
Detailed Explanation: Used before sports, interviews, or challenges; it carries excitement and personal encouragement.
Additional Notes: Common in team motivation and sports.
9. May Fortune Favor You
Definition: A poetic, formal wish for destiny and luck to work positively in someone’s favor.
Meaning: Suggests trust in fate and expresses elevated goodwill.
Tone: Noble and inspirational.
5 Scenario Examples:
- “May fortune favor you in this competition.”
- “May fortune favor you and your plans.”
- “May fortune favor you always.”
- “May fortune favor you on this journey.”
- “May fortune favor you, my friend.”
Detailed Explanation: Ideal for ceremonial speeches, cards, or dramatic encouragements—it sounds grand and heartfelt.
Additional Notes: Pairs well with literary or formal language.
10. Go for Gold
Definition: A sporty phrase rooted in Olympic language meaning to aim for the best possible achievement or outcome.
Meaning: Urges ambition and full-throttle effort.
Tone: Motivational and competitive.
5 Scenario Examples:
- “Go for gold in the finals!”
- “Go for gold—you’re ready.”
- “Go for gold, give it your best.”
- “Go for gold—never settle.”
- “Go for gold, champion.”
Detailed Explanation: Conveys excitement and belief in success; perfect for athletes, students, or anyone chasing excellence.
Additional Notes: Best for sports and motivational contexts.
11. You’ll Do Great
Definition: A confident statement expressing faith in someone’s abilities to handle a challenge successfully. Meaning: It’s assurance that the person already possesses what’s needed to succeed. Tone: Encouraging and friendly.
5 Scenario Examples:
- “Don’t worry, you’ll do great on your speech.”
- “You’ll do great in the interview.”
- “You’ll do great; you’re prepared.”
- “You’ll do great today—trust yourself.”
- “You’ll do great; I can feel it.”
Detailed Explanation: It emphasizes trust rather than chance. People use it to calm nerves before a performance or meeting. Additional Notes: Perfect for supportive, personal messages.
12. You’re Going to Nail It
Definition: An upbeat phrase meaning you’ll perform exceptionally well or complete something with excellence. Meaning: Highlights confidence and excitement for the person’s success. Tone: Motivational and casual.
5 Scenario Examples:
- “You’re going to nail it today!”
- “You’re going to nail it; don’t overthink.”
- “You’re going to nail it—like always.”
- “You’re going to nail it, superstar!”
- “You’re going to nail it; stay calm.”
Detailed Explanation: This phrase pumps energy and positivity. It’s common among friends, mentors, or coaches. Additional Notes: Avoid in formal letters; ideal for pep talks.
13. Break a Leg
Definition: A traditional theatrical saying meaning “do your best and succeed spectacularly.” Meaning: Ironically wishing harm to avoid bad luck, rooted in theater superstition. Tone: Playful and artistic.
5 Scenario Examples:
- “Break a leg on stage tonight!”
- “Break a leg, you’ll wow the crowd.”
- “Break a leg at your audition.”
- “Break a leg, star!”
- “Break a leg—you’ve rehearsed hard.”
Detailed Explanation: It’s a creative, historic way to wish good luck without saying the actual words. Additional Notes: Best used in performing arts circles.
14. May the Odds Be Ever in Your Favor
Definition: A literary-inspired phrase expressing hope that circumstances align for someone’s success. Meaning: Combines humor and heartfelt support. Tone: Dramatic yet encouraging.
5 Scenario Examples:
- “May the odds be ever in your favor at the contest.”
- “May the odds be ever in your favor, my friend.”
- “May the odds be ever in your favor for tomorrow’s exam.”
- “May the odds be ever in your favor today.”
- “May the odds be ever in your favor—go crush it.”
Detailed Explanation: Popularized by The Hunger Games, it’s both witty and motivational. Additional Notes: Fun for pop culture lovers.
15. Hope It Goes Well
Definition: A simple phrase showing care and optimism for a positive outcome. Meaning: Focuses on genuine support rather than superstition. Tone: Gentle and polite.
5 Scenario Examples:
- “Hope it goes well today!”
- “Hope it goes well with your project.”
- “Hope it goes well for your meeting.”
- “Hope it goes well—you deserve it.”
- “Hope it goes well; you’ve got this.”
Detailed Explanation: Soft and thoughtful, suitable for texts, cards, or workplace chats. Additional Notes: Excellent for casual professionalism.
16. Sending Positive Vibes
Definition: A modern phrase meaning to send good energy, thoughts, and emotional support. Meaning: Suggests encouragement and spiritual positivity. Tone: Uplifting and emotional.
5 Scenario Examples:
- “Sending positive vibes for your interview.”
- “Sending positive vibes your way.”
- “Sending positive vibes—believe in yourself.”
- “Sending positive vibes for great results.”
- “Sending positive vibes always.”
Detailed Explanation: Works well for friends or social media messages. It’s modern, expressive, and emotional. Additional Notes: Ideal for informal communication.
17. Here’s to Your Success
Definition: A toast-like expression wishing someone achievement and triumph in their efforts. Meaning: Formal yet warm, expressing confidence in their future success. Tone: Elegant and celebratory.
5 Scenario Examples:
- “Here’s to your success in the new venture.”
- “Here’s to your success and growth.”
- “Here’s to your success—cheers!”
- “Here’s to your success, my friend.”
- “Here’s to your success and happiness.”
Detailed Explanation: Often used in speeches or professional celebrations. Adds grace and positivity. Additional Notes: Ideal for corporate events and milestones.
18. Shine Bright
Definition: A poetic phrase encouraging someone to display their talents boldly and confidently. Meaning: Promotes positivity, uniqueness, and self-belief. Tone: Inspirational and warm.
5 Scenario Examples:
- “Shine bright during your show.”
- “Shine bright—you’re amazing.”
- “Shine bright in your new job.”
- “Shine bright—you’ve worked hard.”
- “Shine bright and make us proud.”
Detailed Explanation: Encourages authenticity and courage while wishing success. Additional Notes: Lovely for personal or creative contexts.
19. Wishing You the Best of Luck
Definition: A refined and complete version of the classic “good luck.” Meaning: Conveys strong emotional warmth and support. Tone: Sincere and universal.
5 Scenario Examples:
- “Wishing you the best of luck today.”
- “Wishing you the best of luck for your future.”
- “Wishing you the best of luck, always.”
- “Wishing you the best of luck with your plans.”
- “Wishing you the best of luck, dear.”
Detailed Explanation: Timeless and adaptable to any age group or context. Additional Notes: Great for cards, letters, or formal notes.
20. You’re Ready for This
Definition: A phrase that reminds someone they’re capable and prepared for the challenge ahead. Meaning: Instills calm and focus. Tone: Supportive and empowering.
5 Scenario Examples:
- “You’re ready for this—trust yourself.”
- “You’re ready for this big day.”
- “You’re ready for this; keep breathing.”
- “You’re ready for this—stay sharp.”
- “You’re ready for this; you’ve practiced enough.”
Detailed Explanation: Combines emotional reassurance with motivation—great for anxious friends or teammates. Additional Notes: Perfect for pre-event pep talks.
21. Go Win It
Definition: A bold call encouraging action, effort, and victory. Meaning: Motivates with competitive energy and confidence. Tone: Strong and direct.
5 Scenario Examples:
- “Go win it for the team!”
- “Go win it—you deserve the title.”
- “Go win it, champion.”
- “Go win it; you’ve worked hard.”
- “Go win it—don’t hold back.”
Detailed Explanation: Ideal for sports and competitive moments, emphasizing performance and drive. Additional Notes: Best for confident or high-energy encouragements.
22. Hope You Ace It
Definition: A casual and friendly way of saying “I hope you succeed perfectly.” Meaning: Encourages someone to perform excellently. Tone: Cheerful and informal.
5 Scenario Examples:
- “Hope you ace it today!”
- “Hope you ace it, bestie.”
- “Hope you ace it—you’ve got the skills.”
- “Hope you ace it—stay calm.”
- “Hope you ace it this time.”
Detailed Explanation: Common among students, peers, or colleagues; adds youthful energy. Additional Notes: Fun tone for casual conversations.
23. Rooting for You
Definition: Expresses that you’re emotionally supporting someone’s success from afar. Meaning: Shows empathy, care, and active encouragement. Tone: Heartfelt and friendly.
5 Scenario Examples:
- “I’m rooting for you all the way.”
- “Rooting for you to win.”
- “Rooting for you always.”
- “Rooting for you—you’ve earned it.”
- “Rooting for you from here!”
Detailed Explanation: Perfect when you can’t be present physically but want to show moral support. Additional Notes: Great for emotional connection.
24. You’ll Crush It
Definition: A dynamic way of saying “you’ll perform exceptionally well.” Meaning: Encourages confidence and power. Tone: Energetic and modern.
5 Scenario Examples:
- “You’ll crush it today!”
- “You’ll crush it like always.”
- “You’ll crush it—just relax.”
- “You’ll crush it, boss!”
- “You’ll crush it, go shine.”
Detailed Explanation: Common in workplaces or among friends. Adds youthful motivation. Additional Notes: Very popular in social media captions.
25. Give It Your All
Definition: Encourages wholehearted effort and commitment regardless of the outcome. Meaning: Focuses on perseverance and self-pride. Tone: Inspiring and thoughtful.
5 Scenario Examples:
- “Give it your all, no regrets.”
- “Give it your all—you’ve got what it takes.”
- “Give it your all and shine.”
- “Give it your all, that’s enough.”
- “Give it your all, I’m proud already.”
Detailed Explanation: Emphasizes effort over results—a grounding, wise expression. Additional Notes: Excellent for moral and emotional encouragement.
26. You’ve Got What It Takes
Definition: Reassures someone that they possess the talent, heart, and strength to succeed. Meaning: Highlights belief in personal ability. Tone: Reassuring and affirming.
5 Scenario Examples:
- “You’ve got what it takes to win.”
- “You’ve got what it takes—trust yourself.”
- “You’ve got what it takes, no doubt.”
- “You’ve got what it takes—go prove it.”
- “You’ve got what it takes, my friend.”
Detailed Explanation: Builds self-confidence in moments of doubt. Additional Notes: Great for mentors and friends alike.
27. Hope Everything Works Out
Definition: A gentle wish for success and peace regardless of specific results. Meaning: Encourages optimism and patience. Tone: Warm and empathetic.
5 Scenario Examples:
- “Hope everything works out fine.”
- “Hope everything works out today.”
- “Hope everything works out for you.”
- “Hope everything works out perfectly.”
- “Hope everything works out; you deserve it.”
Detailed Explanation: Comforting for stressful situations or uncertain outcomes. Additional Notes: Balanced tone between empathy and hope.
28. May the Universe Be Kind to You
Definition: A spiritual way of wishing someone good fortune, balance, and positive energy. Meaning: Suggests faith in universal guidance and destiny. Tone: Poetic and soulful.
5 Scenario Examples:
- “May the universe be kind to you today.”
- “May the universe be kind to you always.”
- “May the universe be kind to you in this journey.”
- “May the universe be kind to you and guide you.”
- “May the universe be kind to you, dear friend.”
Detailed Explanation: Perfect for spiritual, meditative, or heartfelt moments. Additional Notes: Ideal for personal messages and goodbyes.
29. Go Make It Happen
Definition: A powerful command encouraging determination and initiative. Meaning: Motivates action and accountability. Tone: Assertive and empowering.
5 Scenario Examples:
- “Go make it happen, you’ve planned enough.”
- “Go make it happen—time to shine.”
- “Go make it happen today.”
- “Go make it happen, leader.”
- “Go make it happen—trust your plan.”
Detailed Explanation: Encourages confidence and drive; great for leaders and self-starters. Additional Notes: Perfect for motivational speeches.
30. Here’s Hoping for the Best
Definition: A warm, realistic wish that outcomes turn out favorably. Meaning: Blends optimism with humility. Tone: Gentle and honest.
5 Scenario Examples:
- “Here’s hoping for the best tomorrow.”
- “Here’s hoping for the best outcome.”
- “Here’s hoping for the best—it’s in your favor.”
- “Here’s hoping for the best, always.”
- “Here’s hoping for the best—stay calm.”
Detailed Explanation: Conveys sincerity and comfort; often used when outcomes are uncertain. Additional Notes: Polite and adaptable for any relationship.
FAQs
1. What’s the best formal way to say “Good Luck”?
“Wishing you success” or “Here’s to your success” sound elegant and professional in emails or business letters.
2. What’s a romantic way to wish someone good luck?
Say “Shine bright, my love” or “May the universe be kind to you.” Both feel intimate and emotional.
3. What’s a polite way to say good luck to a boss?
Use “Wishing you success in your goals” or “Here’s to your continued achievements.” They’re respectful and professional.
4. What can I say instead of “Good Luck” in exams?
Try “Hope you ace it”, “You’ll do great”, or “You’re ready for this.” They’re uplifting and encouraging.
5. What’s a casual way to cheer a friend up before an event?
Use “You’ve got this”, “Go get ’em”, or “Smash it.” They sound natural, energetic, and friendly.
Conclusion
Changing how you say “good luck” keeps your words fresh and meaningful. Whether you’re writing to a coworker, comforting a partner, or inspiring a student, these alternatives express sincerity, motivation, and care. Language shapes emotion—so choose words that spark confidence and warmth.
The next time someone faces a challenge, skip the usual “good luck” and send something that sounds like you.
