the day is yours

Question

Hi!'I owe you my life, the day is yours'whats the meaning of 'the day is yours' here? I guess I roughly know what it mean, but looking for a better rendition for my memory. Thanks- Terr

BarbaraPA · Accepted Answer

It's not a standard expression. The day belongs to you... meaning pehaps that your victory will be remembered or something like that?

Terr3 · Answer

Hi Grammar geek

Your guess is absolutely right, I dragged it from a fantasy novel. I guess what I don't see was why owning a day is such a big deal, what could a person possibly gain by owning a day?

Is it possible one of a lovers say these words to the other?

Clive · Answer

Hi guys,

I owe you my life, the day is yours'

whats the meaning of 'the day is yours' here? It's an old-fashioned and formal way of saying to your opponent, 'I surrender'. Imagine a defeated general on the field of battle handing his sword to the victiorious general, and saying this.

The corollary is for the victorious leader to tell his troops that 'The day is ours'. 'The day' here refers to the day of a battle, again a reference to bygone days when battles were normally fought and resolved in a single day.

Have a look at the title of this picture that relates to the outcome of Pickett's Charge, in the US Civil War.

And again, in Henry IV, Part One, Prince Hal says The trumpet sounds retreat; the day is ours.

Best wishes, Clive

Terr3 · Answer

Hi Clive!

His life was spared! Now I understand in total, great thanks! -Terr

the day is yours

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