Cross my heart and hope to die?

Question

Why 'hope' to die? I am crossing my heart to make a promise, but surely I don't hope to die if I ever break the promise which may be beyond my control.

Answer 1

And how about the next line ... "Stick a needle in my eye!"

Eww.  Yeah, the whole thing's just another way of saying you're absolutely serious.

Answer 2

Attest to the truth of something; solemnly assure someone that the truth has been spoken. For example, I did lock the door--cross my heart and hope to die! This phrase most likely originated as a religious oath based on the sign of the cross; it is generally accompanied by hand gestures such as crossing one's hands over one's breast and then pointing the right hand skyward (a variant is cross my heart and point to God). Today most often uttered by children, it was first recorded in 1908

Answer 3

What are you a fox political reporter LOL. Just don't use line from 50's movie or tv show.

Answer 4

this is just a saying... to persuade a person to believe whatever he/she is saying!

Answer 5

Just a gesture to show your honesty. Probably taken from times when people were less honest.

Answer 6

It's just a formula meaning "I swear on my life", like saying "may God strike me dead if I'm lying"

Answer 7

The phrase "Cross my heart and hope to die" is meant to reassure someone that you are wholeheartedly sincere.  If I were to say that I cross my heart and hope to die, then I mean that I would rather die than break my word to you.  Far too many people are quick to go against their word.  I may not have much in this world but when I give my word to someone I would rather die (and stick a needle in my eye) than go against it.