Are you looking for a way to tell someone how happy you are? Maybe you need a Portuguese expression wishing your jiu-jitsu instructor good morning? “Bom dia” suits both of these occasions. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression.
Meaning
The expression “Bom dia” is an informal good morning greeting in the Portuguese language. It’s more common in countries like Brazil and Mozambique than in Portugal. You can use it to greet people you see in the street, regardless of how well you know them.
“Bom dia” also has a use as an adjective in speech. It can add the feeling of excitement or happiness to joyous occasions. When you tell someone that something is “Bom dia,”” it means that you’re having a good time, or it’s the best experience you’ve had in a while.
The phrase can apply to going out with friends, watching a movie, or hanging out at the beach. It’s a versatile saying, and there are plenty of ways to use it and integrate it into English. It’s more common to hear people use it on the west coast of the United States and in New York City. Bom dia means “very good” or “well done,” and it can also mean “this is awesome.”
Example Usage
“Bom dia everybody, let’s squeeze every drop of energy out of this day and give it all we got. With the right attitude, we can achieve anything we want.”
“Bom dia, that was so cool. We had a great time, and I still feel the adrenaline rushing through my veins. I can’t wait to do it again.”
“Bom dia. What are you guys up to today? You look like you have plans. Can I get in on the action with you?”
“Bom dia,” there’s no way we could have had a better start to the trip. We have a full tank of gas, loads of snacks for the road, and we’re ready for the best road trip possible.”
“This place is Bom dia. I’m having a great time, and I feel free and happy. Come and dance with me!”
“Bomb dia to you, my friend. Do you know where I can find an internet café in this town? I’m trying to get service, but there’s nothing around.”
Origin
The expression “Bom dia” originates from the Portuguese language. It’s a common morning greeting for Brazilians but less common in Portugal. Language experts are unsure how the saying ended up penetrating Western culture. However, it first appeared in the Los Angeles and San Diego areas around the West Coast.
Some experts believe the phrase entered English through Brazilian jiu-jitsu instructors setting ups training centers on the west coast of the US. AS a result of the growing popularity of the port, many Portuguese terms are finding their way into colloquial English.
“Bom Dia Brazil” (Good Morning Brazil” was also a famous TV morning show in Brazil. It premiered in January 1983, featuring presenter Carlos Monforte. Initially, Bom Dia covered political and economic issues in Brasília.
Phrases Similar to Bom Dia
- Good morning.
- Let’s get it.
Phrases Opposite to Bom Dia
- I fell down.
What is the Correct Saying?
- Bom dia.
Ways People May Say Bom Dia Incorrectly
Some people may use “Bom dia” to explain emotional or physical states unrelated to high energy. The saying has nothing to do with detonating bombs.
Acceptable Ways to Phrase Bom Dia
You can use “Bom dia” when trying to wish someone a good morning in Portuguese. It can also describe someone behaving happily and excitedly. The phrase suits social and professional use. You could use it at work to say good morning to a colleague.
You could use it at home to tell your kids to get excited for a day at the amusement park. Bom dia can refer to any excited state of happiness. It’s suitable for explaining your behavior or that of others.