A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "What a beautiful day" in French
Express delight at lovely weather with this classic French phrase for 'what a beautiful day'.
Quelle belle journée !
kel BEL zhoor-NAYneutral
French TTS · 0:01
Use this when the sun is shining, the sky is clear, or the weather is particularly pleasant. It's a great way to start a conversation with a shopkeeper or a neighbor.
Alternatives
- Il fait beau !More directly states that the weather is good.
- Quel temps magnifique !A slightly more emphatic way to say the weather is wonderful.
Ways to get it wrong
Pronouncing 'belle'
The 'll' in 'belle' is pronounced like an English 'l', not a 'y' sound.
Silent 'e' at the end
The final 'e' in 'journée' is usually silent, but it does affect the pronunciation of the preceding 'é'.
A small cultural note
French people often comment on the weather, especially if it's good, as a way to connect and share a moment.
The same phrase in other languages
Frequently asked
How to say what a beautiful day in French?
The most common way is 'Quelle belle journée !'. You can also say 'Il fait beau !' which means 'The weather is nice!'.
Is 'Quelle belle journée' formal or informal?
This phrase is quite versatile and can be used in most situations. It's not overly formal or casual, making it a safe choice.
When do French people talk about the weather?
French speakers often comment on the weather as a way to initiate small talk. It's a common icebreaker in shops, markets, or when meeting acquaintances.
