A2 noun #1,500 most common 6 min read

日曜日

Sunday is the day of the week that comes after Saturday and before Monday.

nichiyoubi

Explanation at your level:

Hello! Sunday is a day of the week. It is the day after Saturday. Many people do not go to work or school on Sunday. It is a day to relax and play. You can say 'See you on Sunday!' to a friend.

Sunday is the day that comes after Saturday. It's often considered the last day of the weekend. People usually use this day for rest, family activities, or hobbies. For example, you might say, 'We usually have a big family lunch on Sundays.' It's a good day to plan for the week ahead, but also to enjoy yourself before Monday comes.

Sunday marks the end of the weekend and precedes Monday. It's commonly a day for leisure, religious observance, or family gatherings. Many people look forward to Sunday as a break from their usual work or study routine. You might hear phrases like 'Sunday best', referring to smart clothing worn for special occasions, or 'Sunday roast', a traditional meal. It’s a day that offers a chance to recharge before the start of a new week.

Sunday occupies a unique position in the week as the final day of the weekend, often imbued with cultural significance related to rest and recreation. Beyond its calendrical function, it's associated with specific traditions, such as the 'Sunday roast' in British culture or religious services. The phrase 'Sunday best' denotes attire for formal or special events. Understanding the nuances of its usage, from casual invitations ('Let's go for a walk this Sunday') to more formal contexts, is key to mastering its application.

Sunday, as the concluding day of the conventional weekend, carries a multifaceted cultural weight. It is often perceived as a liminal space between the freedom of leisure and the impending structure of the work week. Its significance extends beyond mere temporal designation, encompassing traditions like religious observance ('the Lord's Day'), familial rituals ('Sunday dinner'), and specific social customs ('wearing one's Sunday best'). The term can also evoke a particular atmosphere – a sense of quietude, reflection, or even a touch of melancholy ('the Sunday blues') as the weekend draws to a close.

The concept of Sunday resonates deeply within Western cultural frameworks, historically anchored as the 'Lord's Day' and a designated period for cessation of labor and spiritual reflection. Its etymological roots, tracing back to 'Sun's Day', hint at its pre-Christian astronomical associations, later subsumed by religious doctrine. Culturally, 'Sunday' is a rich signifier, conjuring images from the 'Sunday roast' to the 'Sunday supplement' of newspapers, and even the psychological phenomenon of 'Sunday neurosis'. Its grammatical flexibility, particularly the use of the plural 'Sundays' to denote habitual occurrences, allows for nuanced temporal expression, distinguishing it from a singular, static point in time.

Word in 30 Seconds

  • Sunday is the day after Saturday, often the last day of the weekend.
  • It's commonly a day for rest, family, and religious activities.
  • The name 'Sunday' comes from 'Sun's Day'.
  • Common phrases include 'Sunday best', 'Sunday roast', and 'Sunday blues'.

Hey there! Let's dive into the wonderful world of Sunday! You know, that special day that wraps up the weekend and gets us ready for a new week. It's the day that follows Saturday, and for most of us, it's a chance to hit the pause button. Think of it as the grand finale of your weekend, a time to recharge your batteries, catch up with loved ones, or maybe just enjoy a lazy morning with a cup of coffee or tea. It’s a day that holds different meanings for different people – for some, it’s a sacred day of worship; for others, it’s prime time for hobbies, sports, or family outings.

In the grand scheme of the week, Sunday often feels a bit different. It’s a transition day, bridging the freedom of the weekend with the structure of the upcoming weekdays. This unique position gives it a special vibe. Whether you’re attending a religious service, cheering on your favorite team, exploring a new park, or simply enjoying the quiet comfort of your home, Sunday is that breath of fresh air. It’s a day to reflect, relax, and prepare for whatever the next five days might bring. So, next time Sunday rolls around, remember to embrace its unique charm and make the most of it!

The name Sunday has a fascinating history rooted in ancient times! It comes from Old English, specifically 'Sunnandæg', which literally means 'Sun's Day'. This naming convention wasn't unique to English; many cultures linked this day to the sun, their most prominent celestial body. The ancient Romans, for instance, called it dies Solis, also meaning 'Sun's Day'. This practice likely originated from the Babylonians, who associated each day of the week with one of the seven classical planets and the sun was a major one!

This connection to the sun has deep roots in pagan traditions, where the sun was often worshipped as a deity. However, with the rise of Christianity, Sunday took on a new, profound significance. Emperor Constantine the Great, in the 4th century AD, officially declared Sunday a day of rest and worship for Christians, calling it the 'Lord's Day' (dies Dominica in Latin, which is where we get words like 'domingo' in Spanish and Portuguese). This decree helped solidify Sunday's role as a day of rest and religious observance, a tradition that continues to influence our weekly rhythm today. So, when you say 'Sunday', you're echoing a name that has traveled through ancient pagan beliefs and Christian traditions, all centered around the sun and the concept of the Lord's Day!

Sunday is a versatile word used in everyday conversation, planning, and cultural references. We often use it to talk about our weekend plans, like 'What are you doing this Sunday?' or 'We're having a family dinner on Sunday.' It's also common to refer to specific Sundays, such as 'last Sunday' or 'next Sunday'. When talking about recurring events, we use the plural form: 'I play tennis every Sunday.'

In terms of formality, 'Sunday' is quite neutral. You can use it in casual chats with friends ('Let's meet up this Sunday!') or in more formal contexts like scheduling meetings ('The report is due by Monday, so please finish it before Sunday evening.'). It's a fundamental part of our weekly structure, so it appears in countless collocations. Think about 'Sunday best' (your nicest clothes for church or a special occasion), 'Sunday roast' (a traditional meal, especially in the UK), or 'Sunday driver' (someone who drives very slowly, often causing traffic jams). Understanding these common pairings helps you use the word naturally and effectively.

Sunday pops up in quite a few colorful idioms and expressions! Let's explore some:

  • A hard day's night: While not exclusively about Sunday, it often implies the end of a period of work and the beginning of rest, like the end of the week leading into Sunday. Think of The Beatles' song!
  • Sunday best: This refers to your nicest clothes, typically worn to church or for a special occasion on a Sunday. It's about dressing up! Example: 'She wore her Sunday best to her cousin's wedding.'
  • Sunday driver: This describes someone who drives much slower than the surrounding traffic, often holding others up. It paints a picture of a leisurely, perhaps inconsiderate, pace. Example: 'We were stuck behind a Sunday driver for miles on the highway.'
  • Sunday roast: A classic British tradition, this is a meal typically eaten on a Sunday afternoon, consisting of roasted meat, potatoes, vegetables, and gravy. Example: 'My favorite part of the week is our family Sunday roast.'
  • Come hell or high water: This idiom means you'll do something no matter what obstacles arise. While not directly using 'Sunday', it often implies a determination to get something done, perhaps even before a relaxing Sunday arrives. Example: 'I'll finish this project by Friday, come hell or high water.'
  • Once in a blue moon: This refers to something that happens very rarely. While not directly related to Sunday, it highlights infrequency, much like a rare event might stand out against the regular weekly cycle. Example: 'We only go out for dinner once in a blue moon.'

Let's break down the grammar and sound of Sunday! As a noun, it doesn't typically have a plural form because it refers to a specific day. However, when we talk about Sundays in general, like every week, we use the plural 'Sundays': 'I work on Sundays.' (Though many people rest on Sundays!).

Articles aren't usually used with 'Sunday' when referring to a specific day ('See you Sunday'), but we might use 'the' for emphasis or when talking about a particular Sunday in the past ('It was the Sunday before Christmas').

Pronunciation-wise, in British English, it's often pronounced as /ˈsʌn.deɪ/, with the stress firmly on the first syllable. In American English, it's very similar, often /ˈsʌn.deɪ/, again with the primary stress on 'Sun'. A common mistake for learners might be to put equal stress on both syllables or stress the second syllable, which sounds unnatural. Rhyming words are tricky because of the unique '-day' ending, but words ending in '-day' like 'birthday' or 'funday' share the same final sound. Think of words that rhyme with 'day' for the second syllable: 'play', 'say', 'way'.

Fun Fact

Many languages have names for Sunday related to the sun (e.g., German 'Sonntag') or the Lord (e.g., French 'dimanche').

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈsʌn.deɪ/

Starts with the 'suh' sound like in 'sun', followed by a 'n' sound, then 'day' like in 'day'.

US /ˈsʌn.deɪ/

Very similar to British English, with the stress on the first syllable: 'SUN-day'.

Common Errors

  • Stress on the second syllable (sun-DAY).
  • Pronouncing the 'a' sound in 'day' too strongly.
  • Adding an extra syllable or sound.

Rhymes With

Birthday Funday Half-holiday Playday Workday

Difficulty Rating

Reading 1/5

Easy - common word, simple meaning.

Writing 1/5

Easy - straightforward usage.

Speaking 1/5

Easy - frequently used.

Listening 1/5

Easy - easily recognizable.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

day week after before rest family

Learn Next

weekend weekday Saturday Monday holiday

Advanced

Sabbath observance leisure tradition melancholy

Grammar to Know

Prepositions of Time (Days)

Use 'on' for days: <em>on Monday</em>, <em>on Sunday</em>.

Using Plurals for Habitual Actions

Use plural nouns with 'every' for habits: <em>every Sunday</em>.

Articles with Days of the Week

Generally omit articles: <em>See you Sunday</em>. Use 'the' for specific past days: <em>the Sunday before</em>.

Examples by Level

1

Today is Sunday.

Today is Sunday.

Use 'is' for present state.

2

Sunday is a fun day.

Sunday is a fun day.

Use 'a' before singular countable nouns.

3

I see you on Sunday.

I see you on Sunday.

Use 'on' for days of the week.

4

Sunday is after Saturday.

Sunday is after Saturday.

Use 'after' to show sequence.

5

No school on Sunday.

No school on Sunday.

Use 'no' to negate existence.

6

Sunday is a rest day.

Sunday is a rest day.

Use 'a' for general examples.

7

Happy Sunday!

Happy Sunday!

Common greeting.

8

What do you do on Sunday?

What do you do on Sunday?

Use 'do' for questions about actions.

1

We always have a big family meal on Sunday.

We always have a big family meal on Sunday.

Use 'always' for habits; 'on' for days.

2

Last Sunday, we went to the park.

Last Sunday, we went to the park.

Use 'last' + day for past events.

3

I need to finish my homework before Sunday.

I need to finish my homework before Sunday.

Use 'before' to indicate time limit.

4

Sunday is my favorite day of the week.

Sunday is my favorite day of the week.

Use 'my favorite' to express preference.

5

What time does the shop close on Sunday?

What time does the shop close on Sunday?

Use 'What time' for specific times.

6

They are visiting their grandparents this Sunday.

They are visiting their grandparents this Sunday.

Use 'this' + day for the upcoming instance.

7

It's a good day to relax and read a book on Sunday.

It's a good day to relax and read a book on Sunday.

Use infinitive 'to relax', 'to read'.

8

Don't forget to set your alarm for Monday morning, Sunday is almost over!

Don't forget to set your alarm for Monday morning, Sunday is almost over!

Use imperative 'Don't forget'.

1

Many people consider Sunday a day for rest and reflection.

Many people consider Sunday a day for rest and reflection.

Use 'consider' + noun + adjective/noun phrase.

2

We're planning a barbecue for next Sunday, weather permitting.

We're planning a barbecue for next Sunday, weather permitting.

Use 'weather permitting' for conditional plans.

3

She always wears her Sunday best when attending formal events.

She always wears her Sunday best when attending formal events.

Use 'Sunday best' for formal attire.

4

The traffic can be quite heavy on Sunday afternoons as people return from trips.

The traffic can be quite heavy on Sunday afternoons as people return from trips.

Use 'as' to show reason.

5

He's been feeling a bit down, experiencing the 'Sunday blues' before the work week starts.

He's been feeling a bit down, experiencing the 'Sunday blues' before the work week starts.

Use present perfect continuous 'has been feeling'.

6

Most shops in this town are closed on Sundays.

Most shops in this town are closed on Sundays.

Use plural 'Sundays' for recurring events.

7

The traditional Sunday roast is a cherished family ritual for many.

The traditional Sunday roast is a cherished family ritual for many.

Use 'cherished' to describe something valued.

8

Are you doing anything special this Sunday, or just relaxing at home?

Are you doing anything special this Sunday, or just relaxing at home?

Use 'anything special' in questions.

1

The phenomenon of the 'Sunday scaries' refers to the anxiety some people feel anticipating the start of the work week.

The phenomenon of the 'Sunday scaries' refers to the anxiety some people feel anticipating the start of the work week.

Use 'anticipating' for looking forward to something negative.

2

While many churches hold services on Sunday morning, some offer evening or weekday options.

While many churches hold services on Sunday morning, some offer evening or weekday options.

Use 'while' for contrast.

3

He's known for his leisurely 'Sunday driving', often causing minor traffic disruptions.

He's known for his leisurely 'Sunday driving', often causing minor traffic disruptions.

Use gerund 'driving' after 'Sunday'.

4

The cultural significance of the Sunday roast extends beyond a mere meal; it's a cornerstone of family bonding.

The cultural significance of the Sunday roast extends beyond a mere meal; it's a cornerstone of family bonding.

Use 'cornerstone' for something essential.

5

In some regions, Sunday is still observed as a day of complete rest, with most businesses closed by law.

In some regions, Sunday is still observed as a day of complete rest, with most businesses closed by law.

Use 'observed' for following a custom/law.

6

She meticulously prepared her outfit, ensuring it was perfect for her Sunday best.

She meticulously prepared her outfit, ensuring it was perfect for her Sunday best.

Use 'meticulously' for carefulness.

7

The quiet ambiance of a Sunday morning is often sought after by those needing respite from a hectic week.

The quiet ambiance of a Sunday morning is often sought after by those needing respite from a hectic week.

Use 'ambiance' for atmosphere; 'respite' for a break.

8

Whether it's attending a place of worship or enjoying a leisurely brunch, Sunday offers a distinct break from the weekday routine.

Whether it's attending a place of worship or enjoying a leisurely brunch, Sunday offers a distinct break from the weekday routine.

Use 'Whether... or...' for alternatives.

1

The pervasive sense of 'Sunday melancholy' can be attributed to the psychological transition from weekend freedom to weekday obligation.

The pervasive sense of 'Sunday melancholy' can be attributed to the psychological transition from weekend freedom to weekday obligation.

Use 'pervasive' for widespread; 'attributed to' for cause.

2

Historically, the observance of Sunday as a day of rest was deeply intertwined with religious doctrine and societal structure.

Historically, the observance of Sunday as a day of rest was deeply intertwined with religious doctrine and societal structure.

Use 'intertwined with' for strong connection.

3

His penchant for 'Sunday driving' became legendary, transforming mundane commutes into protracted journeys.

His penchant for 'Sunday driving' became legendary, often transforming mundane commutes into protracted journeys.

Use 'penchant for' for a strong liking; 'protracted' for lengthy.

4

The Sunday supplement traditionally offered a more in-depth look at current events and cultural trends than the daily papers.

The Sunday supplement traditionally offered a more in-depth look at current events and cultural trends than the daily papers.

Use 'in-depth' for detailed analysis.

5

For many, the ritual of the Sunday roast is less about the food itself and more about the communal act of sharing a meal.

For many, the ritual of the Sunday roast is less about the food itself and more about the communal act of sharing a meal.

Use 'communal act' for shared activity.

6

The quietude of Sunday mornings provides a valuable counterpoint to the cacophony of the urban week.

The quietude of Sunday mornings provides a valuable counterpoint to the cacophony of the urban week.

Use 'quietude' for stillness; 'counterpoint' for contrast.

7

While secularization has altered its primary function for some, Sunday retains its symbolic importance as a pause in the relentless march of time.

While secularization has altered its primary function for some, Sunday retains its symbolic importance as a pause in the relentless march of time.

Use 'secularization' for reduced religious influence.

8

The practice of wearing one's 'Sunday best' reflects a societal emphasis on respectability and presentation in specific contexts.

The practice of wearing one's 'Sunday best' reflects a societal emphasis on respectability and presentation in specific contexts.

Use 'respectability' for social standing.

1

The theological underpinnings of the Sabbath, often conflated with the Christian observance of Sunday, have profoundly shaped Western concepts of work and leisure.

The theological underpinnings of the Sabbath, often conflated with the Christian observance of Sunday, have profoundly shaped Western concepts of work and leisure.

Use 'underpinnings' for foundational principles; 'conflated' for merged.

2

Post-industrial societies grapple with the erosion of the traditional Sunday as a universal day of rest, leading to debates about work-life balance and the commodification of leisure time.

Post-industrial societies grapple with the erosion of the traditional Sunday as a universal day of rest, leading to debates about work-life balance and the commodification of leisure time.

Use 'erosion' for gradual decline; 'commodification' for treating as a product.

3

The etymological journey of 'Sunday' from a solar deity's day to the 'Lord's Day' exemplifies the syncretic nature of cultural evolution.

The etymological journey of 'Sunday' from a solar deity's day to the 'Lord's Day' exemplifies the syncretic nature of cultural evolution.

Use 'syncretic' for blending different beliefs.

4

Literary depictions often leverage the unique temporal and psychological space of Sunday to explore themes of introspection, ennui, or the quiet before a storm.

Literary depictions often leverage the unique temporal and psychological space of Sunday to explore themes of introspection, ennui, or the quiet before a storm.

Use 'leverage' for utilizing; 'ennui' for boredom/dissatisfaction.

5

The 'Sunday suit', a term now largely archaic, signified a particular sartorial code associated with civic duty and religious piety.

The 'Sunday suit', a term now largely archaic, signified a particular sartorial code associated with civic duty and religious piety.

Use 'sartorial' for relating to clothes; 'piety' for devotion.

6

Cultural anthropologists note the persistent, albeit diminishing, ritualistic significance attached to Sunday across diverse societies, often manifesting in shared meals or communal leisure activities.

Cultural anthropologists note the persistent, albeit diminishing, ritualistic significance attached to Sunday across diverse societies, often manifesting in shared meals or communal leisure activities.

Use 'albeit' for although; 'manifesting in' for appearing as.

7

The paradoxical nature of Sunday – a day intended for rest yet often fraught with the anxieties of the impending week – provides fertile ground for psychological and sociological inquiry.

The paradoxical nature of Sunday – a day intended for rest yet often fraught with the anxieties of the impending week – provides fertile ground for psychological and sociological inquiry.

Use 'paradoxical' for contradictory; 'fraught with' for filled with.

8

From its origins as a day dedicated to the sun god to its transformation into the Christian Sabbath, Sunday's semantic evolution mirrors broader shifts in religious and cosmological paradigms.

From its origins as a day dedicated to the sun god to its transformation into the Christian Sabbath, Sunday's semantic evolution mirrors broader shifts in religious and cosmological paradigms.

Use 'semantic evolution' for changes in meaning; 'paradigms' for models/frameworks.

Common Collocations

this Sunday
next Sunday
last Sunday
every Sunday
on Sunday
Sunday best
Sunday roast
Sunday morning
Sunday afternoon
Sunday evening
Sunday school

Idioms & Expressions

"Sunday best"

Your most formal or attractive clothes, typically worn for special occasions like church.

She put on her Sunday best for the christening.

neutral

"Sunday driver"

A person who drives very slowly, often causing traffic delays.

We were stuck behind a Sunday driver for miles.

casual

"Sunday roast"

A traditional meal, especially in the UK, consisting of roasted meat, potatoes, and vegetables, typically eaten on a Sunday.

My family always gathers for a Sunday roast after church.

neutral

"Sunday blues"

A feeling of sadness or anxiety experienced towards the end of the weekend, as the work week approaches.

I always get the Sunday blues when I think about Monday morning.

casual

"Come hell or high water"

No matter what happens; whatever the difficulties.

I'll finish this report by Friday, come hell or high water.

informal

"A hard day's night"

A long and tiring day of work.

After working from dawn till dusk, it was truly a hard day's night.

neutral/literary

Easily Confused

日曜日 vs Saturday

Both are weekend days and often associated with leisure.

Saturday is the day before Sunday. Sunday often has stronger connotations of rest or religious observance in many cultures.

We went hiking on Saturday, but had a quiet dinner at home on Sunday.

日曜日 vs Weekday

Sunday is contrasted with weekdays.

Sunday is a weekend day, while weekdays (Monday-Friday) are typically for work or school.

Most offices are closed on Sunday, but open on weekdays.

日曜日 vs Sabbath

In Christian tradition, Sunday is often referred to as the 'Lord's Day' or Sabbath.

The term 'Sabbath' originates from Jewish tradition (Saturday) and refers to a day of religious observance and rest. While Sunday is the Christian Sabbath for many, the term 'Sabbath' itself is more specifically tied to the religious concept and often Saturday in Jewish contexts.

For observant Jews, the Sabbath is on Saturday; for many Christians, Sunday serves a similar purpose as the Lord's Day.

日曜日 vs Holiday

Both can be non-working days.

Sunday is a regular weekly day of rest (for many), whereas a holiday is a specific day (which could be a Sunday or weekday) designated for celebration or commemoration, often with legal time off work.

Christmas fell on a Sunday this year, making it a long weekend holiday.

Sentence Patterns

A1-C2

On + Sunday + [activity]

On Sunday, we went to the beach.

A1-C2

This/Next/Last + Sunday

I'll call you next Sunday.

A2-C2

Sunday + [noun]

We enjoyed a lovely Sunday brunch.

A2-C2

Every + Sunday

She visits her grandmother every Sunday.

A1-C2

Sunday + is/was + [description]

Sunday was a beautiful day.

Word Family

Nouns

Sunday The day of the week after Saturday.

Related

Weekend Sunday is part of the weekend.
Weekday Sunday is contrasted with weekdays.
Sabbath In some religious contexts, Sunday is considered the Sabbath or Lord's Day.

How to Use It

Formality Scale

The Lord's Day (most formal, religious) Sunday (neutral, standard) Funday (casual, playful, often used for events)

Common Mistakes

Using 'in Sunday' instead of 'on Sunday' on Sunday
The preposition 'on' is used for specific days of the week and dates.
Saying 'Sundays' when referring to a specific upcoming Sunday this Sunday / next Sunday
'Sundays' (plural) is used for habitual actions that happen every Sunday, not a single instance.
Mispronouncing the stress (e.g., Sun-DAY) SUNDAY
The primary stress falls on the first syllable, 'Sun'.
Confusing Sunday with Saturday Sunday is the day after Saturday.
Remember the order: Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday.
Using 'the Sunday' unnecessarily See you Sunday.
Articles are often omitted when referring to the next or a specific upcoming day.

Tips

💡

Connect Sun & Day

Remember 'Sunday' comes from 'Sun's Day'. Visualize a bright, happy sun on your favorite relaxing day of the week.

💡

Preposition Power

Always use 'on' before 'Sunday' when talking about a specific day: 'on Sunday', 'on this Sunday', 'on next Sunday'.

🌍

Weekend Vibes

Think of Sunday as the grand finale of the weekend. It's a transition day – enjoy the relaxation before the Monday rush!

💡

Plural Power Play

Use 'Sundays' (plural) only when talking about habits: 'I play tennis <strong>every Sunday</strong>.' For a single day, just say 'Sunday': 'See you <strong>Sunday</strong>!'

💡

Stress It Right!

Remember the stress is on the FIRST syllable: <strong>SUN</strong>-day. Avoid saying 'sun-DAY'.

💡

Avoid 'In Sunday'

Native speakers use 'on Sunday', not 'in Sunday'. Make sure you use the correct preposition!

💡

Global Names

Did you know many languages call Sunday 'The Lord's Day' (like French 'Dimanche')? English is unique with 'Sun's Day'!

💡

Plan Your Week

Use Sunday evening to plan your week ahead. This can help reduce 'Sunday blues' and make Monday feel less daunting.

💡

Build Your Sunday Set

Learn related terms like 'weekend', 'rest day', 'Sunday best', and 'Sunday roast' to use 'Sunday' more naturally.

💡

Social Sunday

Think about social events: 'Sunday brunch', 'family gathering on Sunday', 'going to church on Sunday'.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of the <strong>SUN</strong> shining brightly on a relaxing <strong>DAY</strong>.

Visual Association

Picture yourself relaxing outdoors on a sunny day, perhaps having a picnic.

Word Web

Weekend Rest Family Church Relaxation Sunday Roast Monday (contrast)

Challenge

Write down three things you plan to do next Sunday.

Word Origin

Old English

Original meaning: 'Sun's day', named after the sun.

Cultural Context

Generally no cultural sensitivity issues, though religious observances on Sunday are important to many.

In English-speaking countries, Sunday is often a day for family gatherings, religious services (especially Christian), sports (like football/soccer or American football), and relaxation before the work week. The concept of 'Sunday best' and 'Sunday roast' are particularly strong traditions in the UK and Commonwealth countries.

The Beatles - 'A Hard Day's Night' (song, implies end of work week) 'The Sound of Sunday' (various songs/media referencing the mood) Peanuts comic strip (often features Sunday family activities)

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Weekend Plans

  • What are you doing this Sunday?
  • Let's meet up on Sunday.
  • Are you free next Sunday?

Social Gatherings

  • We're having a family dinner on Sunday.
  • Come over for a Sunday roast.
  • Join us for Sunday brunch.

Religious Observance

  • Going to church on Sunday.
  • Attending the Lord's Day service.
  • Sunday school for the children.

End of Week Feelings

  • I always get the Sunday blues.
  • Enjoying the last bit of the weekend on Sunday.
  • Preparing for Monday on Sunday evening.

Conversation Starters

"What's your favorite thing to do on a Sunday?"

"Do you prefer Sunday or Saturday?"

"What did you do last Sunday?"

"Are you planning anything special for this coming Sunday?"

"Do you think Sunday should be the first or last day of the week?"

Journal Prompts

Describe your ideal Sunday.

How do you feel on Sunday evenings? Why?

What traditions do you have for Sundays?

Write about a memorable Sunday from your past.

Frequently Asked Questions

8 questions

In many countries and calendars, Sunday is considered the first day of the week. However, in common usage and some contexts (like ISO 8601 standard), Monday is treated as the first day, making Sunday the seventh and final day of the week.

Both are weekend days. Saturday is the day before Sunday. Culturally, Saturday is often seen as a day for activities and going out, while Sunday is more associated with rest, family, and religious observance, though this varies greatly.

The name comes from ancient times when days were named after celestial bodies. The sun was a prominent object, and its day was likely considered important, possibly for worship or observation.

No, not always. While many cultures and religions encourage rest or religious observance on Sunday, many people work on Sundays, especially in service industries, healthcare, and retail. The tradition of rest is less strict than it once was.

'Sunday best' refers to your smartest or most formal clothes, traditionally worn to church or for special family occasions on a Sunday.

Yes, 'Sunday blues' is a common term describing the feeling of sadness, anxiety, or low mood that some people experience as the weekend ends and the upcoming work or school week looms.

Yes, the plural 'Sundays' is used when talking about something that happens habitually every Sunday. For example: 'We have a family dinner <strong>every Sunday</strong>.'

A 'Sunday roast' is a traditional meal, popular in the UK and Ireland, consisting of roasted meat (like beef, lamb, or chicken), roast potatoes, vegetables, Yorkshire pudding, and gravy, typically eaten on a Sunday afternoon.

Test Yourself

fill blank A1

The day after Saturday is ____.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Sunday

Sunday is the day that follows Saturday.

multiple choice A2

Which sentence correctly uses 'on Sunday'?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: I go shopping on Sunday.

We use the preposition 'on' before days of the week.

true false B1

Sunday is typically considered the first day of the work week.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: False

Sunday is usually the last day of the weekend, followed by Monday, the first day of the work week.

match pairs B1

Word

Meaning

All matched!

These are common expressions related to Sunday.

sentence order B2

Tap words below to build the sentence
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:

The sentence should be: 'Sunday is relaxing before the start of the week.'

fill blank A1

I will see you ____ Sunday.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: on

Use 'on' with days of the week.

multiple choice A2

What does 'Sunday best' usually mean?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Your most formal clothes

'Sunday best' refers to your smartest or most formal attire.

true false B1

The phrase 'Sunday driver' describes someone driving very fast.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: False

A 'Sunday driver' drives very slowly.

sentence completion B2

Many people enjoy a ______ after church.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:

The 'Sunday roast' is a traditional meal often eaten after church services.

multiple choice C1

Which phrase best describes the feeling some people get on Sunday evening?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Sunday blues

'Sunday blues' refers to the feeling of sadness or anxiety as the weekend ends.

Score: /10

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