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  What it means

  Literally “to hold thumbs.” This is the Polish way of wishing someone good luck. Instead of crossing their fingers, Poles tuck their thumbs inside their fists. It is used before someone takes an exam, goes for a job interview, or faces any challenge.

  Vocabulary

  • kciuk — thumb
  • powodzenie — success / luck
  • egzamin — exam

  Grammar note

  'Kciuki' is the accusative plural of 'kciuk'. You will often hear the imperative: "Trzymaj za mnie kciuki!" (Hold your thumbs for me!).

  Cultural context

  The physical gesture is different in Poland! If you cross your fingers in Poland, people might not immediately understand it as a luck-wishing gesture; you must "hold your thumbs" to be culturally accurate.

  Beginner

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