boa segunda-feira
/ˈbo(w).ɐ seˌɡũ.dɐˈfe(j).ɾɐ/word by word
The Portuguese phrase for "happy Monday" is boa segunda-feira.
While English speakers often use "Happy Monday" as a standalone greeting, Portuguese speakers more commonly use boa segunda-feira as a wish for a good day rather than a direct translation of "happy".
Which one should you use?
In casual conversation, speakers often omit the -feira suffix, saying just boa segunda.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Portugal, you can use the expression Tenha uma excelente segunda-feira! to add a Portuguese touch. In Brazil, people often say Tenha uma ótima semana! on Mondays to convey a broader sense of positivity.
How does it change in a sentence?
The adjective boa (good) must be in the feminine form to agree with the feminine noun segunda-feira.
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation is /ˈbo(w).ɐ seˌɡũ.dɐˈfe(j).ɾɐ/. It has 6 syllables, and the first syllable is stressed.
Did you know?
- The word feira inside segunda-feira is the same word used today to describe an open-air street market.
- Before the phrase segunda-feira became standard, Portuguese speakers used the word lũes to refer to Monday.
- While 'Monday' in English is linked to the Moon, the Portuguese segunda-feira is part of a system that focuses on the sequence of workdays rather than celestial bodies.
Examples in context
- Boa segunda-feira para você!Happy Monday to you!
- Desejo uma boa segunda-feira a todos.I wish a happy Monday to everyone.
- Boa segunda-feira, pessoal!Happy Monday, guys!
Example conversation
Gabriel and Camila meet in the office hallway on Monday morning.
- GabrielBom dia, Camila! Boa segunda-feira!Good morning, Camila! Happy Monday!
- CamilaBom dia, Gabriel! Boa segunda-feira para você também.Good morning, Gabriel! Happy Monday to you too.
- GabrielObrigado. Você está pronta para o trabalho?Thanks. Are you ready for work?
- CamilaSim, vamos lá!Yes, let's go!
Sources
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (boa, segunda-feira) and can differ in connected speech.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries boa, segunda-feira, CC BY-SA 4.0.
