a red-letter day

You are wondering about the meaning of the phrase a red-letter day, maybe you heard it in a TV show, movie or theater play. Although this idiom is not used very often, it enriches your capacity of expression and strengthens communication. In which case is the expression a red-letter day used and what is its meaning?

Meaning of "a red-letter day"

Meaning

The phrase “a red letter day” is generally used to refer to a day that is special, memorable, or potentially significant. It is often used to refer to a day that is particularly happy, successful, or important. It is derived from the practice of marking holy days in old almanacs with red letters, making them stand out from other days.

Etymology

The phrase “a red letter day” traces its roots to the practice of marking holy days in old almanacs with red letters, making them stand out from other days. This practice was based on an old superstition that red was a color associated with good luck and success, as well as symbolizing joy and celebration. Red letter days were used to mark special days, like public holidays, religious celebrations, and anniversaries. The phrase “red letter day” was likely derived from this practice, as it was used to refer to days that were particularly happy, successful, or important.

Usage

The phrase “a red letter day” is typically used to express a feeling of excitement and optimism. It is often used to refer to a day that is particularly happy, successful, or important, such as a wedding day, the day a child is born, or the day when an important goal is achieved. The phrase is also often used to refer to days that are exciting and potentially life-changing, such as the day a job offer is accepted, the day a new house is bought, or the day a long-awaited vacation starts.

Example Sentences

• Today is a red letter day! I just got a job offer from my dream company.
• Tomorrow is our 10th wedding anniversary – it’s sure to be a red letter day!
• The day I moved to New York was definitely a red letter day.
• My parents’ 50th wedding anniversary was a red letter day for our family.

Idioms with similar meaning

"Don't judge a book by its cover" is an English idiom that means you shouldn't make assumptions about someone or something based solely on its appearance. In Japanese, the similar idiom is "Hana yori dango," which translates to "Dumplings rather than flowers." This idiom means that substance is more important than appearance.