kɔːl ɪt ə deɪ
Work
neutral
beginner
- Literally:
- To name it a day
What does "call it a day" mean?
- To stop working for the day
- To decide that enough work has been done
Examples
- I'm tired—let's call it a day.
- After twelve hours, the team decided to call it a day.
- We've made good progress. Shall we call it a day?
Origin
American origin from the 19th century, suggesting that what has been accomplished is sufficient for one day's work. The phrase signals the end of effort or activity.
How to use it
Very common workplace expression. Can also be used more broadly to mean ending any activity. 'Call it a night' is used for evening activities.
Similar expressions
stop working
wrap up
finish for today
Opposites
keep going
continue working
Related idioms
- hit the nail on the head
To describe exactly what is true or important
- have one's hands full
To be very busy with something
- learn the ropes
To learn the basics of a job or activity
- it's not rocket science
It's not difficult to understand or do
- get your act together
To organize yourself and start behaving more responsibly
- hit the books
To study intensively
Use it in a practice answer
Try "call it a day" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.