c'était une bonne journée
The English phrase "it was a good day" is translated into French as c'était une bonne journée.
This phrase is used to describe a day that was pleasant or successful.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of ce (it), était (was), une (a), bonne (good) and journée (day/period of time).
Which one should you use?
While c'était une bonne journée describes the quality and duration of the experience, the alternative c'était un bon jour would refer to a specific calendar date or a generic unit of time.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase uses the feminine noun journée because it focuses on the content and the passage of time throughout the day, rather than just the date.
Did you know?
- While journée means 'day', it is a cousin of the English word 'journey'. Both terms originally described the distance a person could travel in a single day's walk.
- If a French speaker says C'était une journée ! without the word bonne, they are often implying the day was exhausting or chaotic rather than good.
- While English speakers use 'good' for many things, a French speaker might replace bonne with belle (beautiful) to express that the day was not just successful, but truly wonderful or sublime.
Examples in context
- Au cours de cette journée, j'ai ressenti une grande satisfaction. C'était une bonne journée de travail.Throughout the day, I felt a great sense of satisfaction. It was a good day at work.
- Quel bonheur! J'ai passé une journée incroyable avec mes amis.What a joy! I had an incredible day with my friends.
- C'était une bonne journée à la plage.It was a good day at the beach.
- Merci pour tout, c'était une bonne journée.Thank you for everything, it was a good day.
Example conversation
Emma and Gabriel are walking home after a walk in the park.
- EmmaOn a bien profité du soleil.We really enjoyed the sun.
- GabrielOui, c'était une bonne journée.Yes, it was a good day.
- EmmaTu es fatigué, Gabriel ?Are you tired, Gabriel?
- GabrielUn peu, mais je suis content.A little, but I am happy.
