make sb's day

Idioms are generally defined as groups of words that form a meaningful whole when they come together, even though the words in them do not make sense on their own. They have produced many idioms according to their own cultural characteristics in communities using the English language. What does make sb's day mean? In what situations is make sb's day used?

Meaning of "make sb's day"

Meaning

The phrase 'make sb's day' is an idiom used to indicate that something has greatly pleased and improved the mood of a particular person. It expresses a feeling of delight and joy caused by a certain event or action.

Etymology

The phrase 'make sb's day' is said to have originated in the early twentieth century, when it was first recorded in the Oxford English Dictionary. It became popular in the 1940s and 50s in the United States, as many people wanted to express their pleasure at receiving a gift or being treated to something special. Since then, it has become a common expression in everyday language.

Usage

The phrase 'make sb's day' is usually used to express pleasure and delight when something special has happened. It is often used to thank someone for a kind gesture or for doing something for you. For example, a friend might say, "That made my day!" if you gave them an unexpected gift. It can also be used humorously to express great surprise or pleasure.

Example Sentences

• When I received flowers from my boyfriend, it really made my day.
• I was so surprised when my boss gave me a raise; it made my day.
• "I can't thank you enough. You really made my day!"
• The unexpected phone call from my best friend made my day.
• When I heard the news of the party, it really made my day!

The Global Spread of English Idioms

As English has become a global language, its idioms have spread far beyond the borders of the UK and USA. For instance, the idiom "beat around the bush" has equivalents in many other languages, such as "tourner autour du pot" in French and "dar vueltas al asunto" in Spanish. Meanwhile, other idioms have been adapted for local contexts, such as the Russian idiom "?? ???? ???????" (ne svoya rubashka), which translates to "not one's own shirt," meaning to be in an uncomfortable or unfamiliar situation.