Call it a day: meaning, examples and when to use it
Short answer: “Call it a day” means to stop working for now. You say it when you decide that you have done enough: “It's late. Let's call it a day.”
What does “Call it a day” mean in English?
When you “call it a day”, you end your work or an activity until later, often until the next day. It is a decision to stop, not a complaint. It does not mean that the whole job is finished for ever.
Examples of “Call it a day”
- We worked for six hours, so we decided to call it a day.
Stopping after a long time. - I'm tired. Shall we call it a day?
Asking if it is time to stop. - The rain got heavy, and the team called it a day.
A reason to stop.
When do you use “Call it a day”?
- At the end of a work or study session.
- To suggest stopping, politely.
- In speech, in meetings and in friendly writing.
Is “Call it a day” formal?
“Call it a day” is neutral and is common at work. It is fine in speech and in friendly emails. In a formal report, write “end work for the day”.
Common mistakes with “Call it a day”
- It means to stop for now, not to quit your job.
- Say “call it a day”, not “call it the day”.
- It is for work or an activity, not for ending a friendship.
Similar expressions
- Another way to stop: “I'm done for today.” See idioms for school and work and “hit the books”.
Questions
What does “Call it a day” mean in English?
“Call it a day” means to stop working for now. You say it when you decide that you have done enough: “It's late. Let's call it a day.”
Is “Call it a day” formal?
“Call it a day” is neutral and is common at work. It is fine in speech and in friendly emails. In a formal report, write “end work for the day”.
Does “call it a day” mean I stop for ever?
No. It means to stop for now and often to continue later.
Can I use “call it a day” in the morning?
Yes, but it is most common when you stop work at the end of a long period.
Part of the English idioms guide and of idioms for school and work, in the 💬 Idioms tool. Đọc bằng tiếng Việt.
Written for English learners by the English for Fun team. How we write our lessons · Last updated 2026-11-05.