“Good Luck” in Italian
In Italian, the most common way of wishing good luck is buona fortuna. It is the direct translation of “good luck”, where buona is the adverb “good” and fortuna is the feminine singular noun “luck”.
It’s the simplest and most widely understood phrase used to wish someone well in various situations, and that is commonly used in both formal and informal settings.
When someone wishes you buona fortuna, you can simply reply with grazie or any other alternative to say “thank you” in Italian. This is a straightforward and appropriate response for any context, for example:
Domani ho un esame importante.
I have an important exam tomorrow.
Buona fortuna!
Good luck!
Grazie!
Thanks!
Other Ways to Say “Good Luck” in Italian
In bocca al lupo!
One of the most traditional ways to wish someone luck is in bocca al lupo. This Italian idiom literally means “in the mouth of the wolf”. I know it might sound strange, but it is as metaphorical as the English “break a leg”.
It’s widely used in Italian culture, particularly for challenging situations, and there is a specific way to respond to this: crepi il lupo or simply crepi, meaning “may the wolf die”.
Domani ho un provino.
I have an audition tomorrow.
In bocca al lupo!
Good luck!
Crepi!
Thanks!
Auguri!
Italians also use auguri to wish well in various situations. It is a very neutral expression to greet people. In fact, it is also often used for celebrations like birthdays, ceremonies, festivities…
Auguri per la partita!
Good luck for the game!
Forza!
A casual and motivating way to wish someone good luck is by saying forza which translates to “come on” or “you got this”. It literally means “strength” and it is often used to encourage someone before a challenge.
Forza! Ce la farai!
Come on! You’ll make it!
