Bonam noctem
The English phrase "have a good night" is translated into Latin as Bonam noctem.
Bonam noctem is used specifically as a parting salutation when leaving someone or ending a conversation at night, rather than as a greeting upon arrival.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the adjective bonam (good) and the noun noctem (night) in the accusative case, which is used here to express a wish for a good night.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase is an elliptical expression of a wish, where a verb such as opto (I wish) or habe (have) is implied but omitted.
Did you know?
- Ancient Romans rarely used Bonam noctem as a standard parting. Instead, they often used Vale, which literally means 'be well' or 'be strong'.
- The noun noctem shares a linguistic root with the Greek word nyx, which is the personification of Night in mythology.
- The phrase Bonam noctem is a direct relative of the French 'Bonne nuit' and the Spanish 'Buenas noches'.
Examples in context
- Bonam noctem, amice.Have a good night, friend.
- Bonam noctem omnibus.Have a good night, everyone.
Example conversation
Julia and Marcus are leaving a dinner party late at night.
- JuliaVale, Marce.Goodbye, Marcus.
- MarcusVale, Julia. Bonam noctem.Goodbye, Julia. Have a good night.
- JuliaEt tibi.And to you.
- MarcusCura ut bene dormias.Take care and sleep well.
