Say it like a local: Good luck in Italian & French

Idioms are those colourful expressions that make a language feel alive. They can sound funny word-for-word, but native speakers use them every day. And with so many assessments, performances and sporting events happening at the moment, it’s the perfect time to learn a couple of simple expressions to wish someone good luck. Here are two easy options (one Italian and one French) that students can try at home straight away.

Italian

In bocca al lupo!
Literal: “In the wolf’s mouth.” 🐺
Meaning: “Good luck!”
Reply: Crepi! (literally “may the wolf die” — used like “thanks / good luck to you too”)
or simply: Grazie!

Mini dialogue:
A: “I’ve got an assessment on Monday.”
B: “In bocca al lupo!”
A: “Crepi! / Grazie!”

French

Je croise les doigts !
Literal: “I cross my fingers.” 🤞
Meaning: “Fingers crossed / Good luck!”
Reply: Merci ! or Merci, moi aussi !

Mini dialogue:
A: “I hope I make the team.”
B: “Je croise les doigts !”
A: “Merci ! / Merci, moi aussi !”

Did you know?

Many idioms reflect culture and traditions — and learning them helps students sound more natural, not just “correct”. Even using one small expression confidently can make a big difference in speaking.

You can also keep it simple with these everyday alternatives:
🇮🇹 Buona fortuna! / Auguri!
🇫🇷 Bonne chance !

Family Challenge / Sfida in famiglia / Défi de famille

Pick one expression and use it at home this week (before sport, homework, an assessment, or a big day  and teach someone else the correct reply!

Alla prossima — see you next time — à bientôt !