French Phrase
Bonne journée !
Meaning
This phrase is a standard way to wish someone well as you are leaving or ending an interaction. It literally translates to 'good day' but functions specifically as a parting wish for the duration of the daylight hours. Unlike a simple greeting, it expresses a desire for the recipient's continued well-being throughout their day.
When to use
Use this when saying goodbye to someone in the morning or afternoon. It is appropriate in both formal and informal settings, such as when leaving a shop, finishing a phone call, or parting ways with a friend.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Bonnejournée!
Bonne (Adjective)
This is the feminine form of bon (good), matching the feminine noun journée.
Jour vs. Journée
Jour refers to a specific point in time or a date, while journée emphasizes the span or duration of the day.
🗨In Conversation
Merci pour le café, à demain !
Thanks for the coffee, see you tomorrow!
De rien ! Bonne journée !
You're welcome! Have a good day!
✕Common Mistakes
Bonjour !
Bonjour is a greeting used when arriving, while Bonne journée is used when leaving.
Bonne jour !
Journée is feminine and refers to the duration of the day, whereas jour is masculine and refers to the unit of time.
↔Alternatives
Passez une bonne journée.
Have a good day (formal/plural).
Bon après-midi.
Have a good afternoon.
Bonne fin de journée.
Have a good rest of the day.
Cultural Tip
In France, it is considered polite and almost mandatory to say Bonne journée to shopkeepers or servers after paying and leaving. It reinforces social bonds and shows respect for the person's service. Interestingly, saying only Bonjour when leaving is a common mistake for learners and can sound slightly abrupt.