How Do You Spell KEEPS FINGERS CROSSED?

Pronunciation: [kˈiːps fˈɪŋɡəz kɹˈɒst] (IPA)

The phrase "keeps fingers crossed" is a common expression used to show hope or luck. The word "crossed" has an irregular spelling with the letter "s" at the end instead of the more typical "ed" ending. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is pronounced kips ˈfɪŋɡərz krɔst, with stress on the first syllable of "fingers" and on the second syllable of "crossed." The "ed" sound is replaced by a t-sound due to a process called flapping in American English, where intervocalic "t" sounds become a voiced alveolar flap.

KEEPS FINGERS CROSSED Meaning and Definition

  1. "Keeps fingers crossed" is an idiomatic expression used to convey the act of crossing one's fingers as a symbol of hope, luck, or desire for a positive outcome. The phrase originates from the superstitious belief that crossing one's fingers brings good luck and wards off unwanted outcomes or misfortune.

    When someone says they are "keeping their fingers crossed," it means they are expressing optimism or wishing for a favorable result in a particular situation. This action is often performed discreetly by crossing the index and middle fingers of one hand, while the other fingers are folded or resting against the palm. It is commonly used in various scenarios, such as before an important event, during a sports match, or when anticipating a favorable outcome, such as winning a game, acing a test, or receiving good news.

    The expression can also be used metaphorically to represent a sense of anticipation, hope, or reliance on luck in situations where the outcome is uncertain. It symbolizes the individual's silent plea or wish for things to turn out well. While the action of keeping fingers crossed does not possess any actual superstitious power, its use as a figurative gesture allows people to express their desires and optimism in a lighthearted and hopeful manner.

Common Misspellings for KEEPS FINGERS CROSSED

  • keep finger crossed
  • keep fingers crossed
  • jeeps fingers crossed
  • meeps fingers crossed
  • leeps fingers crossed
  • oeeps fingers crossed
  • ieeps fingers crossed
  • kweps fingers crossed
  • kseps fingers crossed
  • kdeps fingers crossed
  • kreps fingers crossed
  • k4eps fingers crossed
  • k3eps fingers crossed
  • kewps fingers crossed
  • kesps fingers crossed
  • kedps fingers crossed
  • kerps fingers crossed
  • ke4ps fingers crossed
  • ke3ps fingers crossed
  • keeos fingers crossed