What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "good day," but it functions as the equivalent of the English imperative "have a great day."
Which one should you use?
While both are used in the context of a day, use Bonne journée when saying goodbye to someone, whereas Bonjour is used when arriving or greeting someone.
How does it change in a sentence?
You can expand the phrase into a full sentence by adding a verb. Using the form Passez une bonne journée (the imperative form of passer) is a polite or formal way to say "have a great day," often used in service contexts. For a more casual tone suitable for friends or family, use the "tu" form: Passe une bonne journée.
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation is /bɔn ʒuʁ.ne/. It consists of 2 syllables.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Be careful not to write Bon jour as two separate words. In French, the greeting is the single word Bonjour and the farewell is Bonne journée.
Did you know?
- The term journée is etymologically linked to the concept of a 'journey' or a specific period of travel in its older forms.
- In France, it is common to pair Bonne journée with a small wave or a slight nod of the head. However, kissing on the cheeks is typically reserved for arrivals, not for the moment you wish someone a great day as they leave.
- If you are leaving a shop or cafe, you might hear the phrase Bonne fin de journée, which means 'have a good end of the day'. This version is used specifically after midday once the bulk of the day has passed.
Examples in context
- Bonjour, bonne journée à vous !Hello, have a great day!This example shows how to use Bonne journée as a polite farewell after a greeting.Tatoeba #12553088 by anzart, translation #12553089 by anzart
- Bonne journée, Marie. Profite bien de ta journée à la plage!Have a great day, Marie. Enjoy your day at the beach!
- Bonne journée à tous !Have a great day, everyone!
Example conversation
Nathan and Emma are saying goodbye after a quick chat at a cafe.
- NathanAu revoir, Emma.Goodbye, Emma.
- EmmaMerci, Nathan. Bonne journée !Thanks, Nathan. Have a great day!
- NathanMerci, à plus tard.Thanks, see you later.
- EmmaÀ bientôt !See you soon!
Sources
- Pronunciation from the Wiktionary entry bonne journée.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries journée, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
