When someone you care about is facing a challenge or concern, it's only natural to want to wish her luck.
Giving Encouraging Words
1. One of the best and simplest ways to wish someone luck is use that very phrase “Good luck!”. “Good luck!” is straightforward, heartfelt, and almost impossible to get wrong.
2. Use another phrase.
If you are dealing with someone who dislikes “Good luck!” or if you want a more creative English expression, there are other sayings that essentially mean the same thing.
“Best of luck” or “hoping for the best” both carry the sentiment and are subtle variations.
Crossing one’s fingers is often done to express a wish for luck, so you can also wish good luck by saying, “I’m keeping my fingers crossed.”
While not an exact match, people sometimes borrow the phrase “May the force be with you” from Star Wars to wish people luck with a challenging task.
How to Congratulate Someone
When something great happens to a friend, family member or colleague, congratulations are in order!
1. Don't skirt around the issue when there's something to celebrate! Mention the reason that congratulations are in order right off the bat. If you want, you can tell the person how you heard the news. This will set the right tone and make it easier to say the right words and share in the person's excitement. Here are a few ways to bring it up:
Craig, I heard the big news that you're engaged! How wonderful!
Celine, your father told me that you scored more points than anyone else on the team this season.
Lola, I just saw your Facebook post. I am so excited to hear that you're having a baby!
Marcus, we just heard the great news that you were promoted to senior manager.
2. If it's appropriate, you can follow up the word "congratulations" with an expression of how you feel. For example, you could say that you've enjoyed watching the person work toward his or her goal, or simply say "I'm really happy for you." Be as expressive as you want, keeping in mind that your tone of voice will really make a difference.
