Call it a day
/kɔːl ɪt ə deɪ/informalUK · US
What does “Call it a day” mean?
Call it a day means to stop working on something, either for now or for good.
The everyday sense is simply "let's stop now". A second, heavier sense is retirement or ending something permanently, and context decides which is meant.
It is friendly and very common at work.
When do people say it?
Used at the end of a work session, or about ending a career or a relationship.
“It's nearly seven, let's call it a day.”
Is it formal or informal?
Register: informal. It is most at home in everyday conversation rather than formal writing. Most common in UK and US.
Where does it come from?
Nineteenth century, from workers declaring the working day over.
Origin confidence: Well documented
How do you say “Call it a day” in other languages?
Related idioms
- Under the weather, Mildly unwell.
- Burn your bridges, To cut off any way back.
Last reviewed 2026-09-11