bonne chance demain
In French, "good luck tomorrow" is said as bonne chance demain.
The phrase is used to wish someone success for an event happening the following day.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase bonne chance demain is composed of bonne (good), chance (luck) and demain (tomorrow).
Which one should you use?
While bonne chance demain is a direct way to say the phrase, you can also use Bonne chance pour demain to mean "good luck for tomorrow". In specific informal contexts like exams or performing arts, speakers often use the word merde to wish someone luck, similar to the English expression "break a leg".
Did you know?
- While merde means 'shit', using it to wish someone luck is a tradition from the theater. It originally referred to the piles of horse manure outside a theater, which indicated a large, successful crowd.
- If you are wishing luck to an actor or a student before an exam, saying bonne chance can actually be seen as bad luck in some superstitious circles.
- The word chance is a linguistic relative of the English word 'cadence', as both trace back to the idea of a 'falling' or 'descending' motion.
Examples in context
- Bonne chance pour demain! Je suis sûr(e) que tu réussiras ton entretien.Good luck for tomorrow! I'm sure you'll do well in your interview.
- Je vous souhaite bonne chance pour demain. Que cette réunion soit productive et couronnée de succès.I wish you good luck for tomorrow. May this meeting be productive and successful.
- Bonne chance demain pour ton entretien !Good luck tomorrow for your interview!
- Je te souhaite bonne chance demain.I wish you good luck tomorrow.
- Bonne chance demain, tu vas réussir !Good luck tomorrow, you are going to succeed!
Example conversation
Nathan is nervous about a big presentation he has the next day.
- EmmaTu as l'air stressé pour ta présentation.You look stressed about your presentation.
- NathanOui, c'est un moment très important.Yes, it is a very important moment.
- EmmaBonne chance demain, Nathan !Good luck tomorrow, Nathan!
- NathanMerci beaucoup, Emma.Thank you very much, Emma.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries chance, demain, CC BY-SA 4.0.
