break a leg
The Spanish phrase 'romperse una pierna' directly translates to 'break a leg'. In English, 'break a leg' is an idiomatic phrase commonly used in the field of performing arts to wish someone good luck in an ironic way. However, in the literal sense, it refers to the act of physically breaking one's leg, which is similar to the Spanish phrase. While it's not a phrase one would use in a day-to-day conversation, it surely reflects the rich figurative language in both cultures.
While playing football, Juan was afraid of breaking a leg.
This sentence demonstrates the use of the phrase 'romperse una pierna' in a context of expressing fear during a physical activity, implying the risk associated with the activity.
It's better to be careful when ice skating so as not to break a leg.
In this example, the phrase 'romperse una pierna' is used to suggest caution in a potentially dangerous situation, thus stressing the importance of safety measures when ice skating.
If you try to jump that wall, you could break a leg.
This sentence serves as a warning or an advice, using 'romperse una pierna' to state the potential consequence of attempting a risky action, like jumping over a wall.