Meaning & use
good luck and godspeed
Last updated
Meaning
phrasefixed phraseformalliterary
A formal way to wish someone success and a safe, prosperous journey when they are leaving.
Grammar: Used as a complete farewell on its own; it is not normally part of a longer sentence.
As she boarded the train for her new life abroad, her friends called out, 'Good luck and godspeed!'
The letter ended with the words: Good luck and godspeed in all your future endeavors.
He raised his glass and said, 'Good luck and godspeed to the departing team.'
Common combinations
- wish someone good luck and godspeed
- We gathered at the airport to wish her good luck and godspeed.
- say good luck and godspeed
- He said good luck and godspeed to his colleague who was moving overseas.
- good luck and godspeed to someone
- Good luck and godspeed to all the graduates starting their careers.
Synonyms and how they differ
- bon voyage
- Used to wish someone a good trip, but does not include the idea of success; it is more specifically about travel.
- farewell
- A general goodbye, without the specific wish for success and a safe journey.
Practice
When would you most likely hear the phrase 'good luck and godspeed'?
Choose one answer.
The phrase is a farewell wishing success and a safe journey, so it fits when someone is leaving for a new venture. It is not a greeting or an apology, and it is not used for asking directions.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “good luck and godspeed”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.