einen wunderschönen Tag
The English phrase "have a wonderful day" is translated into German as einen wunderschönen Tag.
This phrase is a polite way to wish someone a pleasant day, typically used when saying goodbye. While einen wunderschönen Tag is a common expression, you can also use informal alternatives like Hab einen wundervollen Tag! (Have a wonderful day!) or Genieß den Tag! (Enjoy the day!). In formal settings, you might say Ich wünsche Ihnen einen wundervollen Tag! (I wish you a wonderful day!).
Which one should you use?
The word wunderschön used in this phrase is more intense and superlative than the word schön, making it equivalent to "wonderful" rather than just "nice".
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase einen wunderschönen Tag is in the accusative case because it functions as the direct object of the implied verb wünschen (to wish).
When do people say it?
When someone wishes you a wonderful day, a common and polite way to respond is Danke, gleichfalls! (Thanks, likewise!).
Did you know?
- In German, the word wunderschön literally combines the word for 'wound' or 'miracle' Wunder with 'beautiful' schön. It suggests a beauty so intense it is almost miraculous.
- Because of this historical connection to formal assemblies, the word Tag is embedded in the names of many German legislative bodies, such as the Reichstag or Landtag.
- While English speakers say 'have a nice day' as a standard greeting, Germans traditionally use Guten Tag more as a greeting upon arrival than as a parting wish.
Examples in context
- Trotzdem wünsche ich euch einen wunderschönen Tag.Still, I hope you have a wonderful day.This sentence shows how to use einen wunderschönen Tag when expressing a wish toward a group.Tatoeba #6961757 by ruth_tatoeba, translation #11147149 by sundown
- Hab einen wundervollen Tag und viel Spaß!Have a wonderful day and have fun!
- Mach's gut und hab einen tollen Tag!Take care and have a great day!
- Ich wünsche Ihnen einen wundervollen Tag voller Erfolg.I wish you a wonderful day full of success.
- Ich wünsche Ihnen einen wunderschönen Tag.I wish you a wonderful day.
- Hab einen wunderschönen Tag!Have a wonderful day!
Example conversation
Julian and Julia are leaving a cafe after lunch.
- JulianTschüss, Julia!Bye, Julia!
- JuliaTschüss, Julian! Hab einen wunderschönen Tag.Bye, Julian! Have a wonderful day.
- JulianDanke, das wünsche ich dir auch.Thanks, I wish you the same.
- JuliaBis bald!See you soon!
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
