make-one's-day
/meɪk wʌnz deɪ/ IELTSAcademic
idiom
If something makes your day, it makes you very happy. It is often used when someone does a kind, pleasant, or surprising thing.
- Your message really made my day.
- That compliment made her day.
- Seeing my old friend made my day.
Adinary Nuance
Make your day is warmer and more personal than words like please or help. It is not the same as make someone happy, which is broader and more neutral. People use it for a small moment of joy, not a long-lasting feeling. It often sounds friendly and conversational.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- làm vui lòng
- Spanish
- alegrar el día
- Chinese
- 让某人开心
- Japanese
- 喜ばせる
- Korean
- 기쁘게 하다
Etymology
This phrase is a modern English idiom built from the verb phrase make one’s day. It became common in everyday speech in the 20th century.
Common phrases
made my daymake someone's dayreally make your day
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is make my day formal or informal?
- It is mostly informal and friendly. It is common in conversation and messages.
- What is the difference between make my day and make me happy?
- Make my day is stronger and more specific. It means something gave you a nice surprise or special joy.
- Can I use make your day in business writing?
- You can use it in light, friendly business messages. It is less suitable for very formal writing.