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knock on wood

 
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river1974



Joined: 20 May 2003
Posts: 525
Location: Taiwan

PostPosted: Mon Apr 11, 2005 9:47 pm    Post subject: knock on wood Reply with quote

Dear teachers:

Could you give me some examples of "knock on wood"? Thanks.
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bud



Joined: 09 Mar 2003
Posts: 2111
Location: New Jersey, US

PostPosted: Tue Apr 12, 2005 10:50 am    Post subject: Reply with quote

It's usually said as an aside to express a hope for good luck (or more accurately, as a hope for no bad luck).

All my plans are set, so - knock on wood - I will be leaving for a long Euopean vacation in three weeks.

Her application cites a straight-A average and stellar non-academic accomplishments. So next year - knock on wood - she will be starting Medical School.

He's an excellent driver. He's never had an accident - knock on wood.

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Sometimes people will gesture as if knocking on their own head to add a little humor. Or if there is anything made of wood within reach, they might knock on that... In many English-speaking countries, I think they say "touch wood" instead.
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Bob S.



Joined: 29 Apr 2004
Posts: 1767
Location: So. Cal

PostPosted: Tue Apr 12, 2005 10:55 am    Post subject: Reply with quote

I studied everything the instructor said would be on the test, so I should have an easy time of it, knock on wood.


I get sick when the plane encounters turbulence, but the weather forecast is for clear skies, so it should be an easy flight, knock on wood.
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river1974



Joined: 20 May 2003
Posts: 525
Location: Taiwan

PostPosted: Tue Apr 12, 2005 6:13 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

I forgot to bring my key when going to work this morning, but fortunately my Mom was home after I was off duty this evening-knock on wood.

Is that OK?
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bud



Joined: 09 Mar 2003
Posts: 2111
Location: New Jersey, US

PostPosted: Wed Apr 13, 2005 11:39 am    Post subject: Reply with quote

The sense is good, but not the timing. It is usually said for something that has not yet happened. So if while traveling home you said, "It's past 5:00, so Mom will probably be home - knock on wood!" then the timing would also be correct.
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river1974



Joined: 20 May 2003
Posts: 525
Location: Taiwan

PostPosted: Wed Apr 13, 2005 6:07 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

Bud, thanks again for your clear explanation!
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