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Knock on Wood

What Does "Knock on Wood" Mean?

homeidiomsKnock on Wood
"Knock on wood" is an English idiom said when one mentions good fortune, hoping the good luck will continue.

Examples in Sentences

Here are three examples of the idiom "knock on wood" used in a sentence:
  • I haven't been sick all year, knock on wood.
  • The car's been running great, knock on wood.
  • So far, the weather's been perfect for our trip, knock on wood.
meaning for knock on wood

What Is an Idiom?

An idiom is a commonly used expression whose meaning does not relate to the literal meaning of its words. In other words, if you were to translate "Knock on Wood" word for word, there is no guarantee the translation would help you to understand the meaning.

An idiom often includes a cultural or historical context that makes it difficult for non-native English speakers to understand. A phrase is classified as an idiom when a direct translation of the words does not reveal the meaning. Most idioms rely on shared knowledge or experiences known only to a specific community.

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