Which McDonald's slogan began appearing in advertising in 1971 and became one of the brand's best-known lines?

“You Deserve a Break Today” began appearing in McDonald's advertising in 1971.

The slogan presented McDonald's as a welcome pause in a busy day, connecting the restaurant's convenience with an emotional promise of relief and enjoyment. Its wording was broad enough to support television, radio, print, and in-store advertising rather than promoting only one product.

The line became especially memorable through a musical jingle. McDonald's later used many other slogans, including “We Love to See You Smile” and “I'm Lovin' It,” so advertising-history questions can easily blur their dates and wording.

“You Deserve a Break Today” was not the company's first slogan and it did not remain its permanent global message. It is significant because it helped establish the long-running pattern of pairing McDonald's branding with short, singable phrases.