In bocca al lupo

What it is

"In bocca al lupo" is an Italian idiom used to wish someone good luck, particularly before a performance. It translates literally to "into the wolf's mouth." The phrase stems from a theatrical superstition where wishing luck directly is thought to invite misfortune. Instead, speakers invoke a dangerous situation to trick fate. The customary reply is "crepi il lupo," which means "may the wolf die," or simply "crepi." While rooted in opera and theatre, the expression has spread beyond the stage into everyday conversation in Italy and occasionally abroad.

Where it comes from

The practice likely began among hunters who wished each other entry into dangerous situations rather than offering simple good wishes. This negative phrasing was believed to ward off bad luck. The wolf serves as a symbol of danger, hunger, and violence in Western culture and Italian language. Similar customs exist in other languages, using negative or taboo subjects to achieve the opposite result. The custom evolved from hunting traditions into the performing arts, where the risk of failure made such superstitions common.

How it is done

The interaction involves two people. One person says "in bocca al lupo" to wish the other success. The recipient responds with "crepi il lupo" or "crepi," effectively wishing the wolf dead. This exchange replaces the direct phrase "good luck." In some contexts, similar customs involve knocking on wood or imitating spitting sounds to break a spell. The ritual relies on the spoken words and the shared understanding of the underlying superstition.

What it is for

The phrase is used to grant good fortune while avoiding the curse of jinxing the outcome. It is asked for by performers facing a show and by others seeking success in various endeavors. The belief holds that by wishing for a dangerous encounter, one actually ensures safety and success.

Who does it

Originally used by actors and opera singers, the custom is now practiced by households and the general public in Italy. Anyone can use the phrase when wishing another person well. There is no formal training required; it is a matter of cultural habit and social convention.

Peoples and places

The idiom is primarily associated with Italy and Italian culture. It is commonly used off-stage in Italy and can be heard in other countries due to cultural exchange. Other cultures have their own versions, such as the English "break a leg" or the French "merde."

What people believe

The core belief is that speaking about good luck directly attracts bad luck. By invoking a negative image like a wolf's mouth, the speaker tricks fate into granting the desired outcome. The wolf is viewed as a threatening creature, so wishing to meet one is seen as a paradoxical way to ensure survival and success.

When it is done

The phrase is used before performances, shows, or any event where success is desired. It is part of daily interaction in Italy when wishing someone well.

Compare and confuse

The Italian phrase is equivalent to the English "break a leg" and the French "merde." Another operatic charm is "toi toi toi," often accompanied by knocking on wood. Spanish and Portuguese speakers use phrases involving "mierda" or "merda." All share the theme of using taboo or negative language to secure good fortune.

Today

The idiom appears in popular culture, such as in the album title by the band Murder by Death and the book "Ink and Bone." It remains a living part of Italian speech, used both in professional settings and casual conversation.

Questions people ask about In bocca al lupo

Good reading and sources

• In bocca al lupo on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Wikidata recordOpen data