In 15 Seconds
- Wish someone success and a good outcome.
- Use for interviews, exams, or big events.
- Works in casual and professional settings.
- It's a warm, supportive gesture.
Meaning
This is a warm, friendly wish for someone's success. It's like sending good vibes and positive energy their way. Think of it as a little verbal cheerleading before a big moment.
Key Examples
3 of 12Texting a friend before a job interview
Hey! Just wanted to say best of luck on your interview today. You're going to smash it!
Wishing you the best of luck on your interview today. You're going to do great!
Emailing a colleague before a presentation
Wishing you the best of luck with the client presentation this afternoon. Let me know if you need anything beforehand.
Wishing you the best of luck with the client presentation this afternoon. Let me know if you need anything beforehand.
Instagram caption for a friend starting a new venture
So excited for Sarah launching her new bakery! Best of luck, girl! Can't wait to visit. 🎂✨
So excited for Sarah launching her new bakery! Wishing you the best of luck, girl! Can't wait to visit. 🎂✨
Cultural Background
In the UK, 'Best of luck' is a very common way to end a professional email, especially if you won't be seeing the person for a while. It is seen as polite and slightly more formal than 'Good luck.' Americans often use 'Best of luck' as a high-energy encouragement. It's frequently heard in sports and business environments to motivate someone before a big event. In Ireland, 'Best of luck' (or 'The best of luck to you') is a very standard way to say goodbye, even if the person isn't doing anything particularly difficult. It's a general blessing. As mentioned, many actors believe saying 'Best of luck' is a curse. You must say 'Break a leg' instead. If you accidentally say 'Best of luck,' some actors might even ask you to go outside, spin around three times, and spit!
Email Sign-offs
You can use 'Best of luck,' as a sign-off in an email if the recipient just told you about a challenge they are facing.
Sarcasm Alert
Be careful with your tone. If you say it too slowly or with a sigh, it sounds like you think the person will fail.
In 15 Seconds
- Wish someone success and a good outcome.
- Use for interviews, exams, or big events.
- Works in casual and professional settings.
- It's a warm, supportive gesture.
What It Means
This phrase is your go-to for wishing someone well. It's not just about luck; it's about hoping for a positive outcome. You're essentially sending them good energy. It's like saying, "I believe in you!" It carries a genuinely supportive vibe. It’s a small gesture with a big heart. It’s way nicer than just shrugging!
How To Use It
Use Best of luck anytime someone is facing a challenge. This could be a job interview, an exam, or even a tough game. You can say it in person, text it, or email it. It’s super versatile. Think about sending a quick text before a friend's presentation. Or maybe an email before a colleague's big meeting. It fits almost any situation where good fortune is welcome. It’s the verbal equivalent of a high-five.
Formality & Register
This phrase is wonderfully flexible. It leans informal but can easily step up for professional settings. For casual chats with friends, it's perfect. For a slightly more formal email to a client, it still works. You might add a bit more context in formal situations. But the core phrase remains the same. It’s like a comfy sweater – good for lounging, but you can dress it up too.
Real-Life Examples
Imagine your roommate is heading to a job interview. You’d say, "Hey, go get 'em! Best of luck!" Your colleague is presenting their project. You might send them a Slack message: "Great work on this. Best of luck with the presentation today!" Planning a trip? You might tell the travel agent, "Thanks for the advice. Best of luck with your day!" It’s about acknowledging their effort and wishing them success.
When To Use It
Use it when someone is about to embark on something important. This includes exams, interviews, performances, competitions, or even difficult conversations. It’s also great for new beginnings, like starting a new job or moving to a new city. Basically, anytime you want to offer encouragement and positive wishes. It’s a universal signal for "I hope this goes well for you." It’s like a little verbal charm.
When NOT To Use It
Avoid Best of luck when someone is facing a guaranteed negative outcome. For instance, if someone is going to get fired, don't say it. It can sound sarcastic or insensitive. Also, don't use it if it implies you don't think they'll succeed. If you have serious doubts, a more nuanced phrase might be better. It's also a bit too light for dire emergencies. Wishing someone "best of luck" after a natural disaster feels a bit off.
Common Mistakes
Sometimes people try to get too fancy. They might say things that sound awkward. Or they might use it in a context where it doesn't fit. For example, saying Best of luck to someone who is already guaranteed to win. That's just weird. Another mistake is overusing it. Don't say it after every single sentence. It loses its impact. Think quality, not quantity.
Common Variations
In the UK, you might hear Good luck more often, but Best of luck is also common. In the US, both are used frequently. Some people add more emphasis: Wishing you the very best of luck! For a more casual vibe, especially in texts, people might just say GL (Good Luck) or BL (Best of Luck). Think of these as the shorthand versions for when you're in a hurry. It's like emojis for your words.
Real Conversations
Scenario 1: Friend's Exam
You
Friend
You
Scenario 2: Colleague's Presentation
Colleague
You (via Slack): "Knock 'em dead! Best of luck with the client pitch."
Scenario 3: Neighbor moving away
Neighbor
You
Quick FAQ
Q. Is Best of luck always about luck?
A. Not really! It's more about wishing success and a good outcome. Luck is just part of the package.
Q. Can I use it for a job interview?
A. Absolutely! It's a perfect phrase for wishing someone well before an interview. It shows support.
Q. Is it rude to say Best of luck?
A. Not at all! It's generally considered very polite and encouraging. Just avoid sarcasm, obviously!
Q. What's the difference between Good luck and Best of luck?
A. Best of luck often feels a bit stronger or more heartfelt. It implies you're wishing them the *most* possible good fortune.
Q. Can I use it in a formal email?
A. Yes, it's quite adaptable. You might pair it with a more formal opening or closing, but the phrase itself is fine.
Usage Notes
This phrase is highly adaptable, fitting comfortably in most casual and professional conversations. While generally positive, avoid using it sarcastically or in situations where success is impossible, as it can come across as insensitive. Ensure your tone conveys genuine support.
Email Sign-offs
You can use 'Best of luck,' as a sign-off in an email if the recipient just told you about a challenge they are facing.
Sarcasm Alert
Be careful with your tone. If you say it too slowly or with a sigh, it sounds like you think the person will fail.
The 'With' Rule
Always remember: Best of luck WITH [Noun]. This is the most natural way to use it.
Theater Superstition
If you are talking to an actor, always use 'Break a leg' instead of 'Best of luck' to avoid being seen as rude or superstitious.
Examples
12Hey! Just wanted to say best of luck on your interview today. You're going to smash it!
Wishing you the best of luck on your interview today. You're going to do great!
Adds a personal touch and encouragement.
Wishing you the best of luck with the client presentation this afternoon. Let me know if you need anything beforehand.
Wishing you the best of luck with the client presentation this afternoon. Let me know if you need anything beforehand.
Professional yet supportive closing.
So excited for Sarah launching her new bakery! Best of luck, girl! Can't wait to visit. 🎂✨
So excited for Sarah launching her new bakery! Wishing you the best of luck, girl! Can't wait to visit. 🎂✨
Enthusiastic and celebratory.
You've trained so hard for this marathon. Best of luck out there!
You've trained so hard for this marathon. Wishing you the best of luck out there!
Acknowledges effort and offers encouragement.
Alright, time to face the dreaded tax season. Best of luck to us all!
Alright, time to face the dreaded tax season. Wishing us all the best of luck!
Shared struggle with a touch of humor.
Thanks for the coffee! Best of luck with the rest of your shift.
Thanks for the coffee! Wishing you the best of luck with the rest of your shift.
Polite and friendly closing.
It's sad to see you go, but I'm so happy for this new chapter. Best of luck with everything in Australia!
It's sad to see you go, but I'm so happy for this new chapter. Wishing you the best of luck with everything in Australia!
Expresses sadness but focuses on positive wishes.
Thank you for the opportunity to interview. I look forward to hearing from you. Best of luck with your decision process.
Thank you for the opportunity to interview. I look forward to hearing from you. Wishing you the best of luck with your decision process.
Polite closing, subtly wishing them ease in their decision.
✗ I wish you a lot of luck for your exam tomorrow.
✗ I wish you a lot of luck for your exam tomorrow.
This is grammatically awkward and less natural than the standard phrase.
✗ We hope you will succeed. Best of luck.
✗ We hope you will succeed. Best of luck.
While 'Best of luck' is okay, placing it directly after 'We hope you will succeed' feels slightly redundant and less smooth.
Ooh, that recipe looks intense! Best of luck! Send pics of the result! 🤞
Ooh, that recipe looks intense! Wishing you the best of luck! Send pics of the result! 🤞
Casual, encouraging, and uses an emoji for extra vibe.
You've worked really hard on your English this term. Best of luck with your final assessment!
You've worked really hard on your English this term. Wishing you the best of luck with your final assessment!
Positive reinforcement and encouragement for their evaluation.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence with the correct preposition.
Best of luck ______ your new job in New York!
We use 'with' to wish luck for a specific task or situation like a job.
Which sentence is grammatically correct?
Choose the best option:
You need 'the' before 'best' and 'luck' must be singular.
Match the phrase to the most appropriate situation.
Situation: A friend is about to walk onto a stage to perform a play.
While 'Best of luck' is okay, 'Break a leg' is the specific idiom for theater performances.
Fill in the missing response.
A: 'I have my final medical exam tomorrow morning.' B: '_________________'
This is the most supportive and natural response for a friend.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Luck Phrases by Formality
Common Prepositions
With
- • Exam
- • Project
- • New Job
- • Move
To
- • You
- • The Team
- • The Family
- • Everyone
Practice Bank
4 exercisesBest of luck ______ your new job in New York!
We use 'with' to wish luck for a specific task or situation like a job.
Choose the best option:
You need 'the' before 'best' and 'luck' must be singular.
Situation: A friend is about to walk onto a stage to perform a play.
While 'Best of luck' is okay, 'Break a leg' is the specific idiom for theater performances.
A: 'I have my final medical exam tomorrow morning.' B: '_________________'
This is the most supportive and natural response for a friend.
🎉 Score: /4
Video Tutorials
Find video tutorials on YouTube for this phrase.
Frequently Asked Questions
14 questionsIt is neutral. You can use it with your boss, your teacher, or your friends. It is safe for almost any situation.
In very casual speech, some people say 'Luck!' but it's much more common to say 'Good luck' or 'Best of luck.'
'Best of luck' is slightly more emphatic and sincere. 'Good luck' is the standard, everyday version.
No, it's better to say 'Best of luck TO you.'
Don't say it after someone has already failed or during a sad event like a funeral.
Yes, it is very common in business emails, especially when someone is leaving the company or starting a project.
It's a theater superstition. Actors believe that wishing for good luck will actually bring bad luck, so they wish for something bad instead.
It's better to say 'I wish you a speedy recovery' or 'I hope you feel better soon.' 'Best of luck' sounds a bit like their health is a game of chance.
It is used in both, but 'All the best' is more common in the UK, while 'Best of luck' is universally understood.
A simple 'Thank you!' or 'Thanks, I'll need it!' is perfect.
It's better to say 'Congratulations!' or 'I wish you a lifetime of happiness.' 'Best of luck' might imply you think the marriage is a risk!
Yes, it can be used as a standalone exclamation.
It means 'I think what you are doing is impossible or stupid, and you are going to fail.'
Yes, 'on' is also acceptable for exams, though 'with' is more common for general tasks.
Related Phrases
Good luck
similarThe most common way to wish someone well.
All the best
synonymA general wish for happiness and success.
Break a leg
specialized formA way to wish luck to a performer.
Fingers crossed
similarHoping for a good outcome.
Godspeed
specialized formA wish for a prosperous journey.
I'll keep my fingers crossed for you
builds onI will continue to hope for your success.