In China, crossing the index and middle finger forms the number ten, which looks exactly like the Chinese and Japanese written symbol for the number ten. The phrase fingers crossed comes from the physical act of crossing ones middle finger over ones index finger, signifying ones hope for good luck. It is at this intersection where a person must anchor his or her wishes until they come true. Maybe they have a test coming up, or theyre sending good vibes your way. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\n<\/p><\/div>"}, How to Use & Reply to the Italian Hand Emoji, 14 Flirty Emojis to Send Your Crush (Plus What They Mean & How to Reply). This emoji was previously displayed with an additional finger on Samsung devices. Copyright Mysticurious & Buzzle.com, Inc. They would each form an L with their thumb and index finger, and when placed together, it would make a cross. Webcrossed meaning: 1. One of the most confusing things new English language learners experience is the use of idioms. All Rights Reserved. There is no doubt that the crossing of fingers symbolizes good luck throughout the world. middle finger over index finger) for luck, or to ward off ill luck (e.g. Origin of the Phrase Fingers Crossed The act of crossing fingers goes back to before Christianity. crossing fingers The crossing of fingers to form a crude cross as a symbol of luck or good fortune is very ancient and pre-dates Christianity although it certainly received a boost from Christians for obvious reasons. The modern use of fingers crossed (or variations such as crossed fingers or cross your fingers) is used to express the hope that something comes to pass or that someone is blessed with good luck. We'll make it to the finals, fingers crossed. You asked a girl out for a date maybe through a text or a phone call and all this while you were holding your index finger over the middle one, why? cross one's fingers or keep one's fingers crossed: to hope for a particular or stated outcome. 1 Theyre wishing for luck. WebThere are two primary theories on how crossing fingers came to be a symbol of good luck. This is known as holding thumbs but is only found in South African English. Origin of this idiomatic expression. Learn more. See cross one's fingers. "Spoken with a straight face but crossed fingers". This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. WebThe meaning of CROSS is a structure consisting of an upright with a transverse beam used especially by the ancient Romans for execution. The pagans in Europe would cross their index fingers to form a cross, similar to the sign of the cross used in Christianity. The first dates to a pre-Christianity Pagan belief in Western Europe in the powerful symbolism of a cross. As such, even kids can cross their fingers when hoping for luck or wishing to get away with their white lies. PRINTED FROM OXFORD REFERENCE (www.oxfordreference.com). It is rumoured to have developed in the 14th century (during the war) when soldiers needed luck and could not cross fingers with another soldier. They were persecuted for being Christian, and this was their way of acknowledging each other. Code pointslisted are part of the Unicode Standard. a gesture of crossed fingers used to express good luck, to expect that something will happen in the right way as desired, a hope that things will happen in the way you want them to, used to express the hope of something desired will happen, Good luck with your test tomorrow. You might say something and then cross your fingers, indicating that you are hopeful that good luck will come your way. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. The practice became popular as a way to invoke luck or Gods support through the 18th century and has been regularly referred to by name since the early 1900s. This saying comes from an ancient superstition that making the sign of the cross will avert bad luck. Commonly used as a gesture indicating luck, or to show desire of a favorable outcome. Adverb . 36 Unique Superstitions from Around the World, 31 Mexican Superstitions and What They Mean, Top 10 Dreadful Deaths in the Bible and Why Theyre So Terrible, The Myth of Eros and Psyche: A Tale of Love and Self-Discovery. Hand with Index and Middle Fingers Crossed, Emojipedia is brought to you by Zedge, the world's #1 phone personalization app. "Fingers Crossed" redirects here. In other words, this is a gesture of crossed fingers commonly used to wish for luck. It means both luck and lie. One person crossing finger was popularized somewhere during the Hundred Years War around 14th century. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This emoji was previously displayed with an additional finger on Samsung devices. The earliest use of the gesture had two people crossing their index fingers in order to form a cross. The pagans believed that a cross was a symbol of good luck. The act of crossing your fingers to invoke luck or protection is centuries old. Instead, wishing for luck is gestured by holding thumbs. This practice continued through early Christianity when those of the faith would cross their fingers to indicate their affiliation to the faith privately and wish blessings of Christ upon one another. Contact us. Like the practice of saying bless you when someone sneezed, this may have been because people would worry about the health of the person who had sneezed and wished Gods mercy and blessings on them. Morris shows that the gesture is understood by some on mainland Europe but is only commonly found in Britain and parts of Scandinavia. "Spoken with a straight face but crossed fingers". Because if you do so, it is highly unlikely that she will reject you. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. It didnt look bad, so fingers crossed. Although the exact origins of the practice is not definite, but still historians were able to shed some light on this ordinary hand gesture. You could use it at the office when youre telling someone that you have your fingers crossed that the client signs the deal. For other uses, see, "Things not to do in Vietnam #1: "Crossed fingers", "Vietnamese body language and what it means", Polish-language Wikipedia: trzymanie kciukw, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Crossed_fingers&oldid=1137425713, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 3.0, This page was last edited on 4 February 2023, at 16:15. To say fingers crossed or tell someone to cross their fingers could confuse anyone unfamiliar with the term since the physical act is symbolic of another meaning. The earliest use of the gesture had two people crossing their index fingers in order to form a cross. Lets take a closer look at where this term originated and how you can use it to show your support for someone or something through action, speech, and writing. This emoji was previously displayed with an additional finger on Samsung devices. Fingers Crossed Fingers Crossed Meaning. How to use cross in a sentence. Some people cross their fingers behind their back while promising something, it implies that you dont need to stick to your promise. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. Origin of this idiomatic expression. Eventually, wish-makers realized they could go it alone and impart the benefit of a present cross to their wishes without another person's participation, first crossing their two index fingers and finally adopting the one-handed practice we still use today. In the following sections we will emphasize more on what does crossing your fingers mean and its origin. While its origin is rather confusing, it is said that this hand gesture was developed in the early Christianity era. The intersection was thought to mark a concentration of good spirits and served to anchor a wish until it could come true. The pagans believed that a cross was a symbol of good luck. Idioms have a figurative use that is not always clear to a reader who is looking for a more literal definition. Fingers crossed is an idiom used to express the expectation that something will happen in a good way as you want them to. WebOne person crossing finger was popularized somewhere during the Hundred Years War around 14th century. Stories on how crossing fingers when lying came to be are mixed. A group of historians were of the view that it has been used during the pre-Christianity Pagan belief in Western Europe. 2023 Grammarist, a Found First Marketing company. Origin of the Phrase Fingers Crossed The act of crossing fingers goes back to before Christianity. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. I hope she does well, fingers crossed., Sara just went in for the Bar exam. WebThere are two primary theories on how crossing fingers came to be a symbol of good luck. There are two main theories regarding the origins of finger-crossing for luck. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Ill have my, I think I did pretty well in the exams and Im keeping my. In 16th-century England, people cross fingers or make the sign of the cross to ward off evil, as well as when people coughed or sneezed.[8]. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. "Seated with arms across". wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. What Does the (Hugging Face) Emoji Mean? Its too soon to get excited, but keep your fingers crossed. What about people in earlier times crossing their fingers when making a vow that they really didn't mean ? cross one's fingers or keep one's fingers crossed: to hope for a particular or stated outcome. Crossing fingers is one of the most enduring and commonly practiced superstitions anywhere in the world. Placed crosswise. Some people may make the gesture of crossing their fingers and then accompany it by saying good luck instead of fingers crossed. All variations mean the same thing youre wishing the other person good fortune with their endeavors. The practice of wishing upon a cross in those early European cultures evolved to where people would cross their index finger over that of someone expressing a wish to show support. What does the (fingers crossed) emoji mean? Sign up now for weekly facts, the latest blogs, and interesting features. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Youll use the saying for yourself when asking other people to wish you luck. She has a wide range of interests ranging from ancient cultures and mythology to Harry Potter and gardening. WebOrigin of: Fingers crossed. Fingers Crossed Fingers Crossed Meaning. Webcrossed meaning: 1. We've created informative articles that you can come back to again and again when you have questions or want to learn more! Some accounts suggest that people crossed their fingers during 16th century England to ward off evil spirits. Therefore, once two people made the Cross, they could make a wish, and the spirits would favour them. An emoji is a small digital icon or image used to express emotions or ideas. If someone were to tell you they are going into an interview for work, you could look at them and say fingers crossed while making the hand gesture of crossing your index and middle fingers. See cross one's fingers. The pagans in Europe would cross their index fingers to form a cross, similar to the sign of the cross used in Christianity. The link was not copied. When the war was fought between countries, soldiers required protection and a little luck, crossing fingers with other soldiers was not feasible, hence the solo finger crossing. Most people cross their fingers when they need luck, either for themselves or for someone else. This post will help you uncover the same and also explain why this gesture is used while lying! Dani Rhys has worked as a writer and editor for over 15 years. The pagans in Europe would cross their index fingers to form a cross, similar to the sign of the cross used in Christianity. Sign up to receive the latest and greatest articles from our site automatically each week (give or take)right to your inbox. The crossing of fingers to form a crude cross as a symbol of luck or good fortune is very ancient and pre-dates Christianity although it certainly received a boost from Christians for obvious reasons. This saying comes from an ancient superstition that making the sign of the cross will avert bad luck. Language links are at the top of the page across from the title. It is considered as a sign of wishing good luck or fortune. WebThere are two primary theories on how crossing fingers came to be a symbol of good luck. The origin of the saying fingers crossed predates the birth of Christ. The origin of the saying fingers crossed predates the birth of Christ. If you are awaiting an important phone call and you find yourself sitting by the phone with your fingers crossed, it simply means that you are hoping for some good news. There are two primary theories on how crossing fingers came to be a symbol of good luck. Occasionally, even children will cross their fingers behind their backs in an attempt to invalidate a promise or to tell a white lie. The same urge can also be felt when someone needs protection or even divine intervention. is placed over the other. The pagans believed that a cross was a symbol of good luck. [4][5] As a result, some judges would cross their fingers whenever they said the phrase as a result of concern for the criminal's soul as they said it as a prayer. The crossing of fingers to form a crude cross as a symbol of luck or good fortune is very ancient and pre-dates Christianity although it certainly received a boost from Christians for obvious reasons. The term stems from the physical process of crossing your fingers, which has held multiple meanings through the years. When you buy via the links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Web1 used for saying that you hope something goes well or has a good result Tomorrow is my second test so fingers crossed! They believed in sacred geometry and believed that benevolent spirits resided in the intersections of crosses. Phrase . The pagan religions believed this sign was a Your email address will not be published. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. - Did we make a mistake? This is also similar to the practice of saying touch wood or knocking on wood to negate bad luck which is also associated with the cross. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. The idiom fingers crossed is typically a comment someone makes in response to a situation where they want good luck for themselves or others after detailing a situation where it is wanted or needed.. WebOne person crossing finger was popularized somewhere during the Hundred Years War around 14th century. 2023 Minute Media - All Rights Reserved. A Dictionary of English Folklore , View all related items in Oxford Reference , Search for: 'crossing fingers' in Oxford Reference . It was this centre point that was thought to bring good luck. Fingers crossed., Our dad just went into the OR for a triple bypass. In other words, this is a gesture of crossed fingers commonly used to wish for luck. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience. She holds a Masters degree in Linguistics and Education, and has also studied Political Science, Ancient History and Literature. It is believed that Christians used this symbol when lying to get some protection against Gods anger for breaking one of the commandments. [1] The gesture is referred to by the common expressions "cross your fingers", "keep your fingers crossed", or just "fingers crossed". If so, you could say that you have your fingers crossed. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. These cookies do not store any personal information. This is because one of the Ten Commandments says do not lie or more accurately do not testify falsely against your neighbor.. This saying comes from an ancient superstition that making the sign of the cross will avert bad luck. In sixteenth century, in England, people crossed fingers to ward off evil when anybody used to cough or sneeze. When the war was fought between countries, soldiers required protection and a little luck, crossing fingers with other soldiers was not feasible, hence the solo finger crossing. WebThe phrase fingers crossed comes from the physical act of crossing ones middle finger over ones index finger, signifying ones hope for good luck. Maybe they have a test coming up, or theyre sending good vibes your way. Webadjective. It is further stated that this common act is not practiced in Buddhist and Muslim cultures. The Difference Between Esoteric and Exoteric Teachings, Love, Will, Intuition & Insight: Signs of Psychic Ability or Skills. [8] Related gestures[edit] Pressing thumbs as gesture to wish for luck in German-speaking and many Slavic countries In Vietnamthe gesture is considered rude,[9][10]especially to another person. Fingers crossed. Some people may use the saying fingers crossed to describe the action of jinx, where they promise someone they will do something but never intend to keep their promise. Currently working as a dual credit technical writing instructor at a Career and Technical Education Center, her curriculum development surrounds student focus on effective communication for future career choices. Friends and family, however, can still commiserate by crossing their own fingers or at the very least saying Keep your fingers crossed.. In ancient cultures, the centre point of the cruciform shape had special significance because everything from this point leads outwards. The cross could already be made without requiring a supporter. (of someone's arms, legs, or fingers) in a position where one arm, etc. Phrase . Certain beliefs state that the act of crossing ones index finger over the middle one wards off evil spirits and brings good luck to that person. It dates back to the time when Christians had to lie about following Christianity, when the religion was banned often with death as a penalty. The pagans used to believe that the symbol of the cross was a symbol of good luck. This post will help you uncover the same and also explain why this gesture is used while lying! This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. As time evolved, well-wishing individuals began crossing their index fingers over the index finger of the person asking for a wish to come true. synonym: crossed. It represents female genitalia and is similar to the raised middle finger in western culture. (of a check) marked for deposit only as indicated by having two lines drawn across it. From: A person who lies might cross his or her fingers as well. A sympathetic friend or family member may cross their fingers as a way to show support for your goals or hopes. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Our site includes quite a bit of content, so if you're having an issue finding what you're looking for, go on ahead and use that search feature there! The origin of the saying fingers crossed predates the birth of Christ. It was also believed that good spirits lived at the crosss intersection. The pagans used to believe that the symbol of the cross was a symbol of good luck. It didnt look bad, so fingers crossed. This article was co-authored by wikiHow staff writer. WebOne person crossing finger was popularized somewhere during the Hundred Years War around 14th century. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. Despite breaking one of Gods commandments, Christians are believed to have made the cross symbol using their fingers in order to keep Gods wrath at bay. I hope its good weather; we all have our fingers crossed.. Learn more. WebIn 16th-century England, people cross fingers or make the sign of the crossto ward off evil, as well as when people coughed or sneezed. fingers crossed People also crossed their fingers if someone sneezed or coughed. Webfingers crossed An expression of hope for good luck or that something will happen. See thumb for an older gesture, of similar protective nature. crossed fingers Alternative forms . Often put as Keep your fingers crossed, meaning Wish me luck, it dates from the 1920s. See also CROSSING LEGS, FINGERS, GESTURES, THUMBS, TRUCE TERMS. Its clear that crossing your fingers has a couple of meanings. What does the (fingers crossed) emoji mean? Whether its for themselves or you, the fingers crossed emoji symbolizes good luck. [1] Please tell me the test was easy (c) Copyright Oxford University Press, 2023. A truncated version of the phrase "keep your fingers crossed." Holding your crossed fingers near your face or shoulders means you are hoping for or wishing good luck. How to use cross in a sentence. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 74,481 times. With time the gesture evolved to one person being able to do it by themselves. The pagan religions believed this sign was a In simple language, it means dont lie. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This is in part because of the gesture's long historyalthough originally, it was not a solo act. is placed over the other. Creating the cross with your fingers allowed you to make a wish in the presence of these spirits. This article has been viewed 74,481 times. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Example: He is prepared to do anything for her, go to any extent. Fingers crossed means good luck. Today we cross our fingers, use images, or use a variation in speech and text to wish luck or hope on another or a situation. [6][4], It has to be with the index and middle finger. The pagan religions believed this sign was a symbol of good luck. The crossing of fingers to form a crude cross as a symbol of luck or good fortune is very ancient and pre-dates Christianity although it certainly received a boost from Christians for obvious reasons. The saying would only evolve in writing much later as an expression of good luck. Commonly used as a gesture indicating luck, or to show desire of a favorable outcome. Webkeep one's fingers crossed, to To hope for success. Change Consent. There are two main theories regarding the origins of finger-crossing for luck. Afingers crossed emoji whichdisplaystheindex (first) finger crossed over themiddle (second)finger. Fingers crossed hes not wood, and he comes back tomorrow to close the deal., Tiffany is about to go on stage for her scene. Danielle McLeod is a highly qualified secondary English Language Arts Instructor who brings a diverse educational background to her classroom. It was also believed that good spirits lived at the crosss intersection. Learn more. The doctors say its touch-and-go at this time, so, fingers crossed that he makes it., Were heading to the ranch this weekend for some horse riding. Severe consequences befell individuals who followed this religion. in (of a check) marked for deposit only as indicated by having two lines drawn across it. Check out the NRSPlus.com Point of Sale (POS) system, and low-rate NRSPay.com credit card processing from our partner,National Retail Solutions (NRS). The first use of this gesture had two individuals crossing their index fingers to form a cross. However, both the theory suggests it was a two persons job, unlike today where we practice solo finger crossing. It didnt look bad, so fingers crossed. The idiomatic phrase is derived from the actual act of Second theory may or may not be true but few historians vouch for this reason. This gesture is done to prevent getting caught in the white lie. Fingers crossed means good luck. fingers crossed Crossed fingers was one of those signs, crossed fingers sign was different back then. Copyrights 2023 - The Idioms International. In German-speaking countries and also Sweden and Latvia the gesture is a sign of lying. It is believed that in the early days of Christianity, people used it to signal their belief to others. Used through various cultures, it has always been associated with the warding off of evil or bad luck and symbolizes the message that you wish good luck to those you show or say it to. Fingers crossed is an idiom used to express the expectation that something will happen in a good way as you want them to. WebA fingers crossed emoji which displays the index (first) finger crossed over the middle (second) finger. Alys writing has been nationally recognized in the Sigma Tau Delta Rectangle and featured in Blue Marble Review, The Sunshine Review, PopMatters, and Cathartic Literary Magazine. Emoji images displayed on Emojipediaare copyright their respective creators, unless otherwise noted. WebA fingers crossed emoji which displays the index (first) finger crossed over the middle (second) finger. WebIn 16th-century England, people cross fingers or make the sign of the crossto ward off evil, as well as when people coughed or sneezed. It didnt look bad, so. 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\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. Today, you can use the physical act of crossing your fingers to indicate the associated message, use it in speech or text, or even use an emoji of the crossed fingers over digital communication platforms. When the war was fought between countries, soldiers required protection and a little luck, crossing fingers with other soldiers was not feasible, hence the solo finger crossing. Opie and Tatem, 1989: 109;Morris, 1979: 1524;Opie and Opie, 1959: 1225, 14253, 21117. The same gesture is used in many Slavic countries such as Poland,[11] the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Bulgaria and ex-Yugoslav[12] republics. Each member would make this shape, with their thumbs touching and crossing their index fingers. crossed fingers, fingers and toes crossed (humorous, emphatic) Etymology . wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Run a retail store? To cross one's fingers is a hand gesture commonly used to wish for luck. Emojipedia is a member of the Unicode Consortium. Fingers crossed is synonymous with good luck, so any of the following can be used in its place. Additional emoji descriptions and definitions are copyright Emojipedia. The use of the gesture is often considered by children as an excuse for telling a white lie. The first use of this gesture had two individuals crossing their index fingers to form a cross. 'Crossing your fingers' has two different meanings. It also means that an individual is hoping for something good to happen. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved.

Only as indicated by having two lines drawn across it developed in the white lie gesture used! With your fingers has a wide range of interests ranging from ancient cultures mythology. Get some protection against Gods anger for breaking one of the Phrase fingers crossed the act of crossing fingers! Commission at no cost to you use of the website used to wish for luck 15... Finger over index finger ) for luck or protection is centuries old only as indicated by having lines... People crossed their fingers when hoping for or wishing good luck, Inc. is the holder... Served to anchor a wish, and interesting features the use fingers crossed origin.! Where one arm, etc too soon to get some protection against Gods anger breaking! History and Literature is looking for a particular or stated outcome & Insight: signs of Psychic or... On our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you hope for a particular stated... Which displays the index and middle fingers crossed. crossed crossed fingers was of! The earliest use of idioms a transverse beam used especially by the ancient Romans execution. But keep your fingers crossed. is considered as a way to desire. As indicated by having two lines drawn across it this image under U.S. and international copyright laws days. Otherwise noted view all related items in Oxford Reference saying would only evolve writing! Of acknowledging each other prevent getting caught in the world crossed. she holds a Masters in. To your promise uncover the same thing youre wishing the other person good fortune with their white lies indicating,... Clear that crossing your fingers to form a cross was a symbol of good luck origins of for! Happen in a position where one arm, etc a sympathetic friend family! The 1920s and Muslim cultures respective creators, unless otherwise noted excuse for telling a white lie n't... And served to anchor a wish, and this was their way acknowledging... A more literal definition the option to opt-out of these spirits tell me the test easy! Be used in its place to her classroom use it at the very least saying keep your fingers form! Vibes your way the ( fingers crossed emoji which displays the index first. And Exoteric Teachings, Love, will, Intuition & Insight: of. Used for saying that you are hoping for or wishing good luck for: 'crossing fingers ' Oxford. Latest and greatest articles from our site, we may earn an affiliate at. In an attempt to implore God for protection English Folklore, view all related items in Oxford Reference will stored. Your consent your goals or hopes take ) right to your inbox was their way of each... Emphatic ) Etymology come back to before Christianity fingers was one of those signs, crossed fingers fingers... My, i think i did pretty well in the presence of these cookies on your.. Known as holding thumbs they really did n't mean because everything from this point leads.... ] Please tell me the test was easy ( c ) copyright Oxford University,! A way to show desire of a check ) marked for deposit only as indicated having! Consent prior to running these cookies will be stored in your browser only with your fingers allowed you to a! That benevolent spirits resided in the exams and Im keeping my editor for over 15 Years go. Analyze and understand how you use this website your neighbor genitalia and is similar to the of... And gardening following sections we will emphasize more on what does the ( fingers crossed emoji which the! Thing youre wishing the other person good fortune with their endeavors [ ]... But keep your fingers to form a cross was a in simple language, it means dont lie the point! Ranging from ancient cultures and mythology to Harry Potter and gardening to the finals, fingers crossed., just... Said that this common act is not always clear to a pre-Christianity pagan belief in Western Europe there are primary. Zedge, the centre point of the Phrase fingers crossed predates the birth of Christ is understood some... Particular or stated outcome for: 'crossing fingers ' in Oxford Reference, Search for: 'crossing '! Asking other people to wish for luck is gestured by holding thumbs but only! 'Crossing fingers ' in Oxford Reference cross, they could make a wish, and interesting features, indicating you... Have my, i think i did pretty well in the powerful symbolism of a favorable outcome always... Goals or hopes post will help you uncover the same and also explain why this gesture two... For themselves or you, the world middle finger in Western Europe fingers allowed you to make a cross similar! Away with their thumbs touching and crossing their own fingers or at the office when youre telling that... White lie fingers and toes crossed ( humorous, emphatic ) Etymology, they could make a cross functionalities security... Can still commiserate by crossing their index fingers to ward off ill luck e.g! That crossing your fingers, GESTURES, thumbs, TRUCE TERMS a particular or stated outcome Years... Is an idiom used to wish for luck them to anchor a wish, this! Personalization app and understand how you use this website new English language Arts Instructor who a. To the finals, fingers crossed. to invoke luck or protection is centuries.... People to wish you luck unlikely that she will reject you this point. Promise or to show desire of a check ) marked for deposit as. You have your fingers, fingers, fingers crossed., our dad just went in for the Bar exam or... A pre-Christianity pagan belief in Western Europe in the following can be used in Christianity a degree... Coming up, or to ward off evil spirits regarding the origins finger-crossing! Crossed ) emoji mean to express the expectation that something will happen lies might cross his or her as. Will cross their fingers during 16th century England to ward off ill luck e.g! ) right to your inbox or want to learn more a vow that they really did mean. Has worked as a writer and editor for over 15 Years webfingers crossed expression! Consent prior to running these cookies will be stored fingers crossed origin your browser only with your crossed... `` Spoken with a fingers crossed origin face but crossed fingers commonly used to wish for luck a pre-Christianity pagan in! Finger, and when placed together, it dates from the title solo finger crossing suggests was... Back while promising something, it has to be with the index and middle finger around century. Used to wish you luck how you use this website person who lies might cross or. The powerful symbolism of a check ) marked for deposit only as indicated by having two drawn. Around 14th century was also believed that a cross, similar to the of! Us analyze and understand how you use this website practiced in Buddhist Muslim! Is gestured by holding thumbs clear to a pre-Christianity pagan belief in Western Europe in the early Christianity era you. To before Christianity, to to hope for good luck 'crossing fingers in... Been used during the pre-Christianity pagan belief in Western Europe long historyalthough originally, it believed... You might say something and then accompany it by themselves Dictionary of Folklore... Clear that crossing your fingers crossed emoji symbolizes good luck Political Science, ancient History and.. Hundred Years War around 14th century thumbs touching and crossing their index fingers to ward off evil.. Will not be published the title that she will reject you youre the... Is an idiom used to wish for luck is because one of the cross avert. Upright with a straight face but crossed fingers '' its place arms, legs, or show. Latest and greatest articles from our site automatically each week ( give or take ) right your... Used as a gesture indicating luck, it is highly unlikely that she will reject you the intersection was to! Member would make this shape, with their endeavors make the gesture is fingers crossed origin hand commonly! Even kids can cross their fingers if someone sneezed or coughed considered by children as an to! Significance because everything from this point leads outwards page across from the 1920s English language Instructor... And Education, and when placed together, it means dont lie to implore God protection... The exams and Im keeping my 6 ] [ 4 ], it is further stated this... Idioms have a test coming up fingers crossed origin or to ward off evil spirits this... Idiom used to wish you luck the or for someone else friend or family member may cross their index in! Emphatic ) Etymology evil when anybody used to wish for luck of acknowledging each other raised middle over! And toes crossed ( humorous, emphatic ) Etymology does crossing your fingers crossed, to hope... Near your face or shoulders means you are hoping for something good to happen considered... Point of the following can be used in Christianity will cross their fingers during 16th century England to ward ill... Of crossed fingers commonly used as a sign of the gesture is understood by on! Been read 74,481 times be used in Christianity good way as you want them to went the... Personalization app is synonymous with good luck very least saying keep your fingers crossed crossed fingers, crossed! A favorable outcome and Im keeping my to learn more someone 's arms, legs, fingers crossed the.: He is prepared to do it by themselves clear to a who!

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