on good days

USAGE SUMMARY

"on good days" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to a certain period of time, usually when things are going well. For example, you could say: "On good days, I can feel optimistic about the future."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I can get right up to a 9. On good days I'm a 3-4.

The Guardian

If you find it helpful, consider repeating the exercise four to six times a day — even on good days.

Harvard University

On good days they ate once a day, but many days they ate nothing.

The New York Times

On good days someone gets to live another day, but this doesn't make the really bad days any easier.

The Guardian

On good days, he was Dorothy and on bad ones, the Wicked Witch of the West.

The New York Times - Arts

On good days, he said, he imagined he was Dorothy, and on bad ones the Wicked Witch of the West.

The New York Times - Arts

On good days I'm fine.

The Guardian - Music

On good days I can go several hours without crying.

The New York Times - Magazine

"I wanted to be Dorothy — on good days.

The New Yorker

On good days, he liked to talk about religion.

The New Yorker

On good days, Gulbis looks like the next big thing.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on good days" to contrast with less favorable periods, providing a balanced perspective.

Common error

Avoid using "on good days" when there's no clear contrast with difficult or challenging times; otherwise, the phrase loses its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on good days" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause by specifying the time or condition under which an action or state occurs. As Ludwig AI explains, it describes when things are going well. The numerous examples in Ludwig demonstrate its use in various contexts to highlight positive instances contrasted with less favorable times.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on good days" is a grammatically sound and frequently used adverbial phrase that specifies when an action or state occurs under favorable circumstances. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a versatile phrase applicable across various registers, but is most prominent in News & Media and Academia. When using it, contrast it with unfavorable times to enhance its impact. Keep in mind that while many sources provide examples of its usage, it is important to ensure that the context warrants its use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

when things are going well

Focuses on the general positive state of affairs rather than specific days.

during favorable times

Emphasizes the positive circumstances, rather than the specific day.

in better times

Highlights a comparison to less favorable periods.

when circumstances are optimal

Focuses on the ideal conditions being present.

on successful occasions

Emphasizes achievements and positive outcomes.

when things look up

Suggests an improvement in conditions.

in moments of prosperity

Highlights times of wealth and success.

under auspicious circumstances

Emphasizes the favorable and promising conditions.

when fortune smiles

Uses a metaphorical expression for good luck.

during periods of success

Focuses on sustained positive achievements.

FAQs

How can I use "on good days" in a sentence?

You can use "on good days" to describe instances when things are going well, like "On good days, I feel incredibly productive and focused."

What's an alternative to saying "on good days"?

Alternatives include phrases like "when things are going well", "during favorable times", or "in better times", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "on good days"?

Yes, the phrase "on good days" is grammatically correct and commonly used to indicate times when circumstances are positive or favorable.

What is the difference between "on good days" and "on better days"?

"On good days" generally refers to times that are simply positive, while "on better days" implies a comparison to times that are worse; it suggests improvement rather than just a positive state.