Bíodh lá iontach agat
To say "have a great day" in Irish, use Bíodh lá iontach agat.
This phrase is a friendly wish used when saying goodbye to someone, expressing the hope that they enjoy the rest of their day.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "May a great day be at you". The term lá iontach means "fantastic day".
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb Bíodh is the subjunctive form of bí (to be), which is used here to express a wish or desire.
Did you know?
- The term iontach evolved from the Middle Irish ingantach, which originally meant 'wonderful' in a way that could be surprising or shocking.
- In some regions, people might respond to this wish with Agat féin, which means 'at yourself' or 'the same to you'.
- While English speakers 'have' a day, the Irish construction literally places the day 'at you', as if the day is a gift being handed over.
Examples in context
- Bíodh lá iontach agat amárach freisin.Have a great day tomorrow too.
- Slán leat, bíodh lá iontach agat.Goodbye, have a great day.
Example conversation
Cian and Saoirse are saying goodbye after a quick chat in the street.
- CianSlán, a Saoirse!Goodbye, Saoirse!
- SaoirseSlán leat, a Cian!Goodbye, Cian!
- CianBíodh lá iontach agat!Have a great day!
- SaoirseGo raibh maith agat!Thank you!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries agat, iontach, lá, CC BY-SA 4.0.
