devil’s luck: Idiom Meaning and Origin

The idiom "devil's luck" is a phrase that is predominantly used in informal English. Its origins can be traced back to the early 19th century, although its exact origin is unclear.

The phrase "devil's luck" often describes a person's seemingly fortuitous or unexplainable success. It is attributed to luck that is perceived as being of a sinister or malevolent nature, like it's the devil himself pulling the strings.

The idiom "devil's luck" is not as commonly used as some other idioms, but it can still be heard in casual conversations. It has a familiarity that varies depending on the cultural, regional, and generational context.

There is limited information available on specific instances of the use of the idiom "devil's luck" in literature or popular media. However, some fictional works have used the idiom, showcasing its place in literary expressions.

The meaning of "devil's luck" is not fixed or widely agreed upon. Different individuals interpret it differently. Some see it as a purely negative expression, denoting an undeserved or temporary stroke of good fortune, while others view it as a more ambiguous and ironic portrayal of unexpected success.

It is worth noting that while the phrase "devil's luck" may have negative connotations, it does not imply any supernatural or religious belief. Instead, it is a figurative expression and should be understood within the context of idiomatic language.

Understanding the nuances and variations of the idiom "devil's luck" can be challenging due to its limited usage and lack of documentation. Nonetheless, its presence in the English language adds to the rich tapestry of idiomatic expressions that capture the complexities of human experiences and emotions.

While the origins and exact meaning of the idiom "devil's luck" may remain somewhat elusive, its continued use in contemporary language reflects the enduring fascination with exploring luck, fortune, and the human condition. Although a definitive conclusion about the idiom's origin or exact meaning may be out of reach, the intrigue and ambiguity surrounding the phrase contribute to its enduring appeal and the endless possibilities of interpretation.

dumb luck is a term often used interchangeably with "devil's luck." It refers to a stroke of luck that occurs randomly or unexpectedly, without any particular effort or skill on the part of the person experiencing it. It's like stumbling upon good fortune by sheer chance or happenstance.

Similarly, tough luck can be seen as the opposite of "devil's luck." It describes a string of unfortunate events or outcomes that befall someone. Unlike the seemingly fortunate and undeserved success associated with "devil's luck," tough luck represents a series of hardships or misfortunes that someone has to endure.

The phrases as luck may have it and as luck would have it are idiomatic expressions that acknowledge the role of luck in determining the outcome of a situation. They suggest that the outcome, whether positive or negative, was entirely dependent on chance or fortune. These phrases are often used to introduce unexpected twists or turns in a story or narrative.

devil in disguise is another idiom related to "devil's luck." It refers to someone or something that appears harmless or innocent but is, in reality, deceptive or malevolent. Just as luck in the idiom "devil's luck" may seem fortuitous but ultimately undependable, the devil in disguise may appear benign but has malicious intentions.