Portuguese Phrase
Bom dia!
Meaning
Literally 'good day', this phrase is the standard way to say 'Good morning' in Portuguese. It is used from sunrise until around noon, and conveys a polite, friendly greeting.
When to use
Use 'Bom dia!' when you meet someone in the morning, whether in a formal setting like a business meeting or a casual encounter on the street. It can also be used in written communication such as emails or messages sent before midday.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Bomdia
Bom (adjective)
Bom means 'good' and agrees in gender and number with the noun it modifies; here it modifies the masculine singular noun 'dia'.
Dia (noun)
Dia means 'day' and is a masculine singular noun, so the adjective takes the masculine singular form 'bom'.
Exclamation mark
In Portuguese, an exclamation mark can be used at the end of a greeting to convey friendliness; the opening exclamation mark is optional.
🗨In Conversation
Bom dia! Como você está?
Good morning! How are you?
Bom dia! Estou bem, obrigado. E você?
Good morning! I'm fine, thank you. And you?
✕Common Mistakes
Bão dia!
The adjective 'bom' does not change to 'bão'; use the standard form 'bom'.
Bom diaa!
Avoid adding extra letters; the correct spelling is 'dia' with a single 'a'.
Boa dia!
'Dia' is masculine, so the adjective must be 'bom', not the feminine 'boa'.
↔Alternatives
Olá, bom dia!
Hello, good morning!
Bom dia a todos!
Good morning everyone!
Bom dia, tudo bem?
Good morning, everything okay?
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, people often greet strangers with a handshake or a quick hug, especially in more informal contexts. In Portugal, a light kiss on each cheek (two kisses) is common among acquaintances. Remember that 'Bom dia' is used only until around noon; after that, switch to 'Boa tarde' (good afternoon).