At the A1 level, 'holiday' is a very important word for talking about your life and plans. It means a time when you do not go to school or work. You use it to say things like 'I like holidays' or 'I am happy on holiday.' It is usually about fun times with family or friends. You might go to the beach or a park. In many English books, you will see pictures of people with suitcases or sun hats when they talk about a holiday. Remember, a holiday is a special day. For example, Christmas is a holiday. Your birthday is a special day, but it is not always a holiday from school! To use this word well, learn the phrase 'on holiday.' You can say, 'I am on holiday in London.' It is a simple way to tell people you are having a break and enjoying yourself. You don't need to worry about complex grammar yet; just focus on the idea of 'no work' and 'lots of fun.'
At the A2 level, you can start using 'holiday' to describe your past and future actions. You can say 'I went on holiday to Italy last year' or 'I will go on holiday next summer.' You should know that there are different types of holidays, like a 'summer holiday' or a 'winter holiday.' You can also use the word 'holidays' (plural) to talk about the long break from school. For example, 'The summer holidays are in July and August.' You might also learn about 'public holidays,' which are days when all the shops and banks are closed. This is useful when you are traveling so you know when things are open. You can start to use simple adjectives with it, like 'a great holiday' or 'a boring holiday.' It is also good to know the difference between 'holiday' and 'vacation' if you talk to people from the USA. Americans usually say 'vacation' for a trip, but they use 'holiday' for days like New Year's Day.
At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'holiday' in various contexts, including work and travel planning. You can discuss 'booking a holiday,' 'holiday insurance,' and 'holiday destinations.' You understand that 'holiday' can be a noun used to describe your annual leave from work. For example, 'I have 25 days of holiday a year.' You can also use it to describe the atmosphere of a place, like the 'holiday spirit.' You should be aware of common collocations like 'package holiday' (where you buy the flight and hotel together) and 'bank holiday.' You can also use the word more figuratively, such as 'taking a holiday from my diet.' At this level, you should also be careful with the spelling, ensuring you don't write 'holliday.' You can describe your holiday experiences in more detail, using a wider range of adjectives like 'relaxing,' 'adventurous,' or 'refreshing.' You are also beginning to understand the cultural differences in how holidays are celebrated around the world.
At the B2 level, you can use 'holiday' to discuss more complex social and economic topics. You might talk about the 'holiday industry' and its impact on the environment or local economies. You can use the word in formal settings, such as discussing 'holiday entitlements' in a contract or 'statutory holidays' in a legal context. You are familiar with more idiomatic expressions and can use the word flexibly. For example, you might discuss the pros and cons of 'staycations' versus international travel. You can also use the word to talk about psychological health, such as the importance of 'taking a holiday' to avoid stress and burnout. Your vocabulary includes related terms like 'sabbatical,' 'leave of absence,' and 'getaway,' and you know when to use each one appropriately. You can write detailed reports or essays about holiday trends, and you are capable of debating the cultural significance of national holidays in different countries. You also understand the nuances of 'holidaying' as a verb in British English.
At the C1 level, you have a sophisticated understanding of 'holiday' and its various connotations. You can use it in nuanced ways to describe subtle shifts in routine or mental state. You might use the word in academic or professional discussions about 'leisure theory' or the 'sociology of tourism.' You are aware of the historical etymology of the word from 'holy day' and can use this knowledge to add depth to your writing or speech. You can handle complex grammatical structures involving the word, such as 'a three-week-long holiday' or 'the holiday's impact on productivity.' You are also sensitive to the register of the word, knowing when to use 'holiday' versus more formal terms like 'furlough' or 'recess.' You can appreciate and use the word in literary contexts, understanding how a holiday can serve as a metaphor for freedom or transition. Your use of collocations is natural and varied, and you can easily switch between British and American usage depending on your audience.
At the C2 level, your mastery of the word 'holiday' is complete. You can use it with precision in any context, from high-level legal drafting to creative literature. You understand the most obscure idioms and historical uses of the word. You can discuss the philosophical implications of the 'holiday' as a construct of the industrial age and how it relates to human rights and labor laws. You are capable of using the word ironically or metaphorically in complex rhetorical structures. For example, you might write about a 'holiday from reason' in a political critique. You can navigate the most subtle cultural differences in holiday observance across the globe and can speak authoritatively on the subject. Your vocabulary is so broad that 'holiday' is just one of many tools you use to describe periods of rest, and you can choose the perfect synonym to convey exact shades of meaning. You can also analyze the word's role in shaping national identity and collective memory.

holliday 30초 만에

  • A holiday is a break from work or school for rest or travel.
  • It can also mean a specific day of celebration like Christmas.
  • In the UK, it's used for vacations; in the US, it's for public days.
  • Commonly used with 'on' (e.g., on holiday) and 'book' (e.g., book a holiday).

The term holiday (often misspelled as holliday) represents a fundamental human need for rest, celebration, and cultural observance. At its core, a holiday is a specific period of time where the normal obligations of life—such as employment, schooling, or domestic chores—are suspended. This suspension allows individuals to engage in activities that promote physical recovery, mental well-being, and social bonding. Historically, the word is derived from the Old English 'haligdaeg,' meaning 'holy day,' which originally referred to religious festivals. In modern secular contexts, however, it has expanded to encompass any day of exemption from work, whether it is a national celebration like Independence Day or a personal vacation to a tropical beach.

Cultural Significance
Holidays serve as the rhythmic markers of the calendar year, providing a shared sense of timing and community. They allow for the preservation of traditions and the passing of heritage from one generation to the next.

After months of grueling deadlines, Sarah finally booked a two-week holiday to the Mediterranean to recharge her batteries.

In British English, the word is used ubiquitously to mean what Americans call a 'vacation.' If a Londoner says they are 'going on holiday,' they likely mean they are traveling somewhere for leisure. In American English, 'holiday' is more strictly reserved for calendar events like Christmas or Thanksgiving. Understanding this distinction is crucial for international communication. Furthermore, the concept of a 'bank holiday' in the United Kingdom refers to public holidays when banks and many other businesses are closed, often resulting in long weekends that the public uses for short trips or home improvements.

Psychological Impact
Psychologists emphasize that taking regular holidays is essential for preventing burnout. The anticipation of a holiday can be just as beneficial for mental health as the trip itself.

The government declared a public holiday to celebrate the national team's victory in the World Cup.

The word also appears in various professional contexts. For instance, a 'tax holiday' refers to a temporary reduction or elimination of a tax. This metaphorical use highlights the core meaning of the word: a break from a standard requirement or burden. Whether it is a religious observance, a national day of mourning, or a summer getaway, the holiday remains a cornerstone of social structure, providing the necessary 'white space' in the busy script of human existence. It is a time for reflection, joy, and the pursuit of happiness outside the confines of productivity.

I am looking forward to the winter holiday so I can spend more time with my extended family.

Economic Factor
The holiday industry, including tourism and hospitality, accounts for a significant portion of the global GDP, illustrating how our desire for rest fuels global commerce.

Even a short weekend holiday can significantly reduce stress levels for office workers.

The school holiday calendar is always the first thing parents check when planning their year.

Using the word holiday correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical role as a noun and its common collocations. It is most frequently paired with the preposition 'on' when describing the state of being away for leisure. For example, one might say, 'She is currently on holiday in Spain.' This construction indicates both the activity and the location. Alternatively, 'holiday' can function as a modifier in compound nouns, such as 'holiday destination,' 'holiday resort,' or 'holiday spirit.' These combinations help specify the aspect of the holiday being discussed.

Verb Pairings
Common verbs used with holiday include 'book,' 'take,' 'spend,' 'enjoy,' and 'cancel.' For instance: 'We need to book our summer holiday before the prices increase.'

The company offers twenty days of paid holiday per year to all full-time employees.

When referring to official days off, the word is often preceded by 'public,' 'national,' or 'bank.' In these cases, it describes a day mandated by law or custom where work is not required. 'Monday is a public holiday, so the office will be closed.' In a more figurative sense, 'holiday' can describe a break from any regular activity. 'I'm taking a holiday from social media this week' implies a deliberate pause in a habit. This versatility allows the word to be used in both formal business settings and informal personal conversations.

Adjective Descriptions
You can describe a holiday as 'relaxing,' 'adventurous,' 'expensive,' 'well-deserved,' or 'disastrous.' Example: 'It was a well-deserved holiday after the project completion.'

Are you going away for the holiday weekend, or staying in the city?

In academic or formal writing, 'holiday' might be replaced by 'leave of absence' or 'sabbatical' depending on the duration and purpose. However, in general communication, 'holiday' remains the most accessible term. It is also important to note the possessive use: 'a day's holiday' or 'two weeks' holiday.' This indicates the duration of the break. When asking someone about their plans, 'What are you doing for your holidays?' is a standard and friendly inquiry. The word carries a generally positive connotation, evoking images of sunshine, relaxation, and freedom from the clock.

The travel agency specializes in luxury holiday packages for honeymooners.

Prepositional Nuance
Use 'during the holiday' for events happening within the timeframe, and 'for the holiday' to indicate the purpose of an action.

We spent our entire holiday exploring the ancient ruins of Greece.

The bank is closed today because it is a statutory holiday.

The word holiday is a staple of daily conversation, media broadcasts, and workplace logistics. In the workplace, you will hear it most often during HR briefings or when discussing team schedules. Managers might ask, 'Has everyone submitted their holiday requests for the summer?' or 'We need to ensure coverage during the Christmas holiday.' In this context, it is a logistical term referring to 'annual leave.' Employees often discuss their upcoming plans in the breakroom, making it a central topic for social bonding among colleagues. 'Where are you heading for your holiday this year?' is a classic icebreaker.

Media and News
News anchors frequently report on 'holiday traffic,' 'holiday weather forecasts,' and 'holiday shopping trends.' These reports focus on the collective behavior of the population during public breaks.

The airport spokesperson warned travelers to arrive early due to the holiday rush.

In the travel and tourism industry, the word is everywhere. From 'holiday brochures' to 'holiday insurance,' the term is used to package and sell experiences. Travel agents use it to evoke a sense of desire and escape. 'Book your dream holiday today!' is a common marketing slogan. On social media, the hashtag #holiday is used millions of times daily, accompanied by photos of landscapes, food, and relaxed individuals. It has become a visual shorthand for a life well-lived and a break from the mundane. In school settings, children and teachers alike count down the days to the 'half-term holiday' or the 'summer holidays,' making it a word associated with relief and excitement.

Public Announcements
You will hear announcements on public transport regarding 'holiday schedules,' which usually mean fewer trains or buses are running.

The local library will be closed on Monday for the bank holiday.

Furthermore, in films and literature, the 'holiday' is a classic plot device. Whether it is a romantic comedy set in a holiday resort or a horror movie where a holiday goes wrong, the setting provides a break from the characters' normal lives, allowing for extraordinary events to occur. In music, many songs celebrate the joy of holidays, from festive carols to summer anthems. The word is deeply embedded in our cultural narrative as a time of transformation and transition. Even in political discourse, leaders might call for a 'holiday' on certain regulations or debates to allow for a cooling-off period, showing the word's reach into the highest levels of governance.

The documentary explored the history of the seaside holiday in post-war Britain.

Advertising Language
Advertisements often use the word 'holiday' to sell products that aren't trips, like 'holiday recipes' or 'holiday outfits,' tapping into the festive mood.

The radio host wished all the listeners a safe and happy holiday break.

The store is having a massive holiday sale with discounts up to 50%.

One of the most frequent errors associated with this word is the spelling. Many learners and even native speakers mistakenly add an extra 'l', writing holliday. This is likely due to the phonetic sound of the first syllable, but the correct spelling is holiday. Another common mistake involves the choice of preposition. While 'on holiday' is the standard British English expression, learners often say 'in holiday' or 'at holiday,' which are grammatically incorrect. In American English, the equivalent is 'on vacation.' Mixing these up can lead to confusion in international settings.

Spelling Error
Incorrect: 'I am going on holliday.' Correct: 'I am going on holiday.' The word comes from 'holy' + 'day,' which helps remember the single 'l'.

Mistake: We are in holiday next week. Correction: We are on holiday next week.

Confusion also arises between 'holiday' and 'vacation.' As mentioned, 'holiday' is the preferred term in the UK for any time off, whereas Americans use 'holiday' specifically for national or religious days like Christmas. If an American says, 'I'm going on holiday,' it sounds slightly formal or old-fashioned to their peers. Conversely, a Brit saying 'I'm going on vacation' might be seen as using an 'Americanism.' Another subtle mistake is using 'holiday' as a verb in American English; while 'holidaying' is perfectly acceptable in the UK, it is rarely used in the US, where 'vacationing' is the norm.

Pluralization Pitfalls
Learners often forget to use the plural 'holidays' when referring to the general concept of school breaks. 'The school holiday is long' sounds less natural than 'The school holidays are long.'

Mistake: I had a great holliday in France. Correction: I had a great holiday in France.

There is also the issue of 'bank holidays.' Some learners assume this means a holiday only for people who work in banks. In reality, it is a general public holiday in the UK and Ireland. Misunderstanding this can lead to missed appointments or unexpected business closures. Finally, using 'holiday' to describe a single day off for personal reasons (like a doctor's appointment) is usually incorrect; that is better described as 'taking a day off' or 'personal leave.' A holiday usually implies a more significant break or a recognized calendar event.

Mistake: Is it a holiday today? (Asking about a personal day off). Correction: Do you have the day off today?

Article Usage
Say 'on holiday' (no article) for the general state, but 'a holiday' when referring to a specific trip. 'I am on holiday' vs 'I am taking a holiday.'

Mistake: I'm going to the holiday. Correction: I'm going on holiday.

Mistake: Happy hollidays! Correction: Happy holidays!

To enrich your vocabulary, it is helpful to explore synonyms and related terms for holiday. The most prominent alternative is vacation, which is the standard term in American English for a period of travel or leisure. While they are often interchangeable, 'vacation' specifically implies leaving one's home, whereas a 'holiday' can simply be a day off where you stay in your own city. Another useful term is break, which is more informal and can refer to shorter periods, such as a 'weekend break' or a 'coffee break.' It suggests a temporary pause in activity.

Professional Terms
In a work context, 'leave' is the formal term. You might take 'annual leave,' 'sick leave,' or 'maternity leave.' 'Furlough' is a more specific term for a mandatory, often unpaid, leave of absence.

Instead of a long summer holiday, they decided to take several short city breaks throughout the year.

For academic settings, recess or vacation (in the UK, 'vac' for short) are used to describe the periods between terms. A sabbatical is a long-term break, typically a year, granted to professors or professionals for research or travel. If you are looking for a more evocative word, getaway suggests an escape from a stressful situation. 'A weekend getaway to the countryside' sounds more romantic and intentional than just 'a holiday.' Staycation is a modern portmanteau for a holiday spent at home or in one's home country, which has gained popularity recently.

Comparison: Holiday vs. Festival
A 'holiday' is the time off work, while a 'festival' is the specific event or celebration happening during that time. You might have a holiday for the Diwali festival.

The professor is on sabbatical this semester, so he won't be teaching any classes.

In more specific contexts, you might hear fiesta (Spanish origin, often used for lively festivals), gala (a festive social event), or bank holiday (specifically UK public holidays). Understanding these nuances allows you to choose the word that best fits the tone and setting of your conversation. For example, 'I'm going on a retreat' implies a holiday focused on spiritual or mental health, often in a quiet, secluded place. Choosing the right synonym can change the entire perception of your time off, from a simple 'break' to a life-changing 'expedition.'

We are planning a quiet staycation this year to save money for a new car.

Formal Alternatives
In legal documents, you might see 'statutory holiday' or 'observed holiday,' referring to the official recognition of the day off.

The city's annual film festival attracts thousands of tourists every summer.

He took a leave of absence to deal with personal family matters.

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

In the past, holidays were the only days when peasants and workers were legally allowed to stop working. This is why the concept of a 'day off' is so deeply tied to religious history.

발음 가이드

UK /ˈhɒl.ə.deɪ/
US /ˈhɑː.lə.deɪ/
The primary stress is on the first syllable: HOL-i-day.
라임이 맞는 단어
Yesterday Roundelay Castaway Stowaway Anyway Everyday Faraway Hideaway
자주 하는 실수
  • Adding an extra 'l' (holliday).
  • Pronouncing the 'i' too strongly (it should be a soft schwa).
  • Confusing the 'o' sound with 'u' (hulliday).
  • Dropping the final 'y' sound.
  • Stressing the second or third syllable.

난이도

독해 2/5

The word is very common and easy to recognize in text.

쓰기 3/5

The spelling 'holiday' vs 'holliday' can be tricky for some.

말하기 2/5

Simple pronunciation, though the 'o' sound varies between UK and US.

듣기 2/5

Easily understood in most contexts due to its frequency.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

Day Work School Travel Rest

다음에 배울 것

Vacation Sabbatical Leisure Itinerary Destination

고급

Furlough Recess Leave of absence Statutory Entitlement

알아야 할 문법

Prepositions with Holiday

Use 'on' for the state (on holiday), 'for' for the purpose (for a holiday), and 'during' for the time (during the holiday).

Compound Nouns

'Holiday' often acts as an adjective in compound nouns like 'holiday resort' or 'holiday spirit'.

Plural vs. Singular

Use 'holiday' for a specific event and 'holidays' for a general period or school break.

Articles with Holiday

No article in 'on holiday', but use 'a' in 'take a holiday'.

Possessive Duration

Use 'a week's holiday' or 'two weeks' holiday' to show length.

수준별 예문

1

I like my summer holiday.

J'aime mes vacances d'été.

Simple subject-verb-object structure.

2

We are on holiday today.

Nous sommes en vacances aujourd'hui.

Use of the preposition 'on' with holiday.

3

Is it a holiday?

Est-ce un jour férié ?

Basic question form with 'is it'.

4

Happy holiday to you!

Bonnes vacances à vous !

Common greeting phrase.

5

I go to the beach on holiday.

Je vais à la plage en vacances.

Present simple for habitual actions.

6

My holiday is in June.

Mes vacances sont en juin.

Using 'in' for months.

7

The holiday is fun.

Les vacances sont amusantes.

Adjective 'fun' describing the noun.

8

I have a holiday from school.

J'ai des vacances scolaires.

Using 'from' to indicate the source of the break.

1

We went on holiday to Spain last year.

Nous sommes allés en vacances en Espagne l'année dernière.

Past simple 'went' with 'on holiday'.

2

I am going to have a long holiday.

Je vais avoir de longues vacances.

'Going to' for future intentions.

3

Monday is a public holiday.

Lundi est un jour férié.

Compound noun 'public holiday'.

4

Did you enjoy your holiday?

As-tu apprécié tes vacances ?

Past simple question with 'did'.

5

They stayed in a hotel on their holiday.

Ils ont séjourné dans un hôtel pendant leurs vacances.

Prepositional phrase 'on their holiday'.

6

I need a holiday because I am tired.

J'ai besoin de vacances parce que je suis fatigué.

Conjunction 'because' linking two clauses.

7

The winter holidays are very cold.

Les vacances d'hiver sont très froides.

Plural 'holidays' with plural verb 'are'.

8

Where do you want to go for your holiday?

Où veux-tu aller pour tes vacances ?

Question with 'want to' and 'for'.

1

We decided to book a package holiday to Greece.

Nous avons décidé de réserver un voyage organisé en Grèce.

Infinitive 'to book' and compound noun 'package holiday'.

2

She gets twenty days of paid holiday every year.

Elle bénéficie de vingt jours de congés payés chaque année.

Quantifier 'twenty days of' before the noun.

3

The city was full of holiday spirit during December.

La ville était pleine d'esprit de fête en décembre.

Abstract noun phrase 'holiday spirit'.

4

I'm looking for a relaxing holiday destination.

Je cherche une destination de vacances relaxante.

Present continuous 'looking for' and compound noun.

5

The bank holiday weekend is always very busy.

Le week-end du jour férié est toujours très chargé.

Adjective phrase 'bank holiday weekend'.

6

We had to cancel our holiday due to the storm.

Nous avons dû annuler nos vacances à cause de la tempête.

Modal 'had to' and prepositional phrase 'due to'.

7

Are you taking any holiday time this month?

Prenez-vous des jours de congé ce mois-ci ?

Present continuous for planned future.

8

He spent his entire holiday reading books.

Il a passé toutes ses vacances à lire des livres.

Verb 'spend' followed by time and an -ing form.

1

The government announced a new statutory holiday for next year.

Le gouvernement a annoncé un nouveau jour férié légal pour l'année prochaine.

Formal adjective 'statutory' modifying holiday.

2

Many people are opting for staycations instead of foreign holidays.

Beaucoup de gens optent pour des vacances à la maison plutôt que des vacances à l'étranger.

Comparison between 'staycations' and 'foreign holidays'.

3

The holiday industry has seen a significant decline this season.

L'industrie des vacances a connu une baisse significative cette saison.

Noun as a modifier in 'holiday industry'.

4

Taking a holiday is essential for maintaining a good work-life balance.

Prendre des vacances est essentiel pour maintenir un bon équilibre entre vie professionnelle et vie privée.

Gerund 'Taking' as the subject of the sentence.

5

The resort offers a variety of holiday activities for all ages.

Le complexe propose une variété d'activités de vacances pour tous les âges.

Noun phrase 'holiday activities'.

6

She is holidaying in the south of France at the moment.

Elle passe ses vacances dans le sud de la France en ce moment.

Using 'holiday' as a verb (British English).

7

The holiday brochure promised luxury but the reality was different.

La brochure de vacances promettait le luxe mais la réalité était différente.

Contrast using 'but'.

8

We need to check the holiday entitlement in your contract.

Nous devons vérifier le droit aux congés dans votre contrat.

Formal compound noun 'holiday entitlement'.

1

The sociological impact of mass holiday tourism is a complex issue.

L'impact sociologique du tourisme de masse est une question complexe.

Academic tone with complex noun phrases.

2

He took a sabbatical, which is essentially an extended holiday for research.

Il a pris un congé sabbatique, ce qui est essentiellement des vacances prolongées pour la recherche.

Relative clause 'which is...' providing a definition.

3

The festival provided a much-needed holiday from the political turmoil.

Le festival a offert des vacances bien méritées après l'agitation politique.

Figurative use of 'holiday' as a break from a situation.

4

Her writing reflects a certain holiday mood, light and carefree.

Son écriture reflète une certaine ambiance de vacances, légère et insouciante.

Using 'holiday' to describe a literary style.

5

The company's holiday policy is designed to prevent employee burnout.

La politique de vacances de l'entreprise est conçue pour prévenir l'épuisement professionnel des employés.

Passive voice 'is designed to'.

6

The region relies heavily on holiday-makers for its economic survival.

La région dépend fortement des vacanciers pour sa survie économique.

Compound noun 'holiday-makers'.

7

Despite the rain, the holiday atmosphere remained vibrant.

Malgré la pluie, l'atmosphère de vacances est restée vibrante.

Concession clause starting with 'Despite'.

8

They spent their holiday immersed in the local culture and traditions.

Ils ont passé leurs vacances immergés dans la culture et les traditions locales.

Participle phrase 'immersed in...' describing the holiday.

1

The concept of the 'holiday' as a right is a relatively modern phenomenon.

Le concept de « vacances » en tant que droit est un phénomène relativement moderne.

Philosophical and historical context.

2

The narrative takes a holiday from reality, entering a surreal dreamscape.

Le récit s'accorde une pause dans la réalité, pénétrant dans un paysage onirique surréaliste.

Highly metaphorical use of the word.

3

The legislative changes regarding holiday pay have caused much debate.

Les modifications législatives concernant l'indemnité de congés payés ont suscité de nombreux débats.

Formal legal and political terminology.

4

The poem captures the ephemeral nature of the summer holiday.

Le poème capture la nature éphémère des vacances d'été.

Literary analysis using sophisticated adjectives.

5

The CEO's decision to grant a surprise holiday was met with jubilation.

La décision du PDG d'accorder des vacances surprises a été accueillie avec jubilation.

Complex sentence structure with passive voice.

6

The city becomes a ghost town during the peak holiday season.

La ville devient une ville fantôme pendant la haute saison des vacances.

Idiomatic expression 'ghost town'.

7

His arguments were a mere holiday from the rigorous logic he usually applied.

Ses arguments n'étaient qu'une simple parenthèse dans la logique rigoureuse qu'il appliquait habituellement.

Metaphorical use in a critical context.

8

The holiday's origins are deeply rooted in agrarian cycles and religious rites.

Les origines de la fête sont profondément ancrées dans les cycles agraires et les rites religieux.

Historical and anthropological description.

자주 쓰는 조합

public holiday
summer holiday
book a holiday
paid holiday
holiday destination
go on holiday
bank holiday
holiday resort
holiday spirit
annual holiday

자주 쓰는 구문

On holiday

— Currently taking a break or traveling for leisure. It is the most common way to describe being in a state of holiday.

She is on holiday in Italy right now.

Holiday home

— A second house owned for the purpose of spending vacations there. Often located in scenic areas.

They spend every summer at their holiday home by the lake.

Holiday season

— The period of time around major holidays, especially the end of the year. Often associated with shopping and festivities.

The shops are very crowded during the holiday season.

Holiday romance

— A short-lived romantic relationship that happens while someone is on vacation. Often ends when the holiday is over.

It was just a holiday romance, but it was very sweet.

Holiday pay

— Money paid to an employee while they are on their annual leave. A standard benefit in many countries.

Does your new job include holiday pay?

Half-term holiday

— A short break in the middle of a school term, common in the UK. Usually lasts one week.

The kids are excited for the half-term holiday.

Package holiday

— A holiday where travel and accommodation are booked together as a single deal. Often cheaper and easier to organize.

We booked a package holiday to save money.

Statutory holiday

— A public holiday that is required by law. Employers must usually give employees the day off or pay extra.

Christmas Day is a statutory holiday in many countries.

Holiday snaps

— Informal photographs taken while on holiday. Often shared with friends and family.

Do you want to see my holiday snaps from Japan?

Holiday rep

— A person whose job is to look after people on a package holiday. Short for 'holiday representative'.

The holiday rep helped us organize a boat trip.

자주 혼동되는 단어

holliday vs Holy day

A 'holy day' is specifically for religious reasons, while a 'holiday' can be secular.

holliday vs Vacation

In the US, 'holiday' is for public days, 'vacation' is for personal trips.

holliday vs Weekend

A weekend is every week; a holiday is a special break.

관용어 및 표현

"A busman's holiday"

— A holiday where you spend your time doing something similar to your normal job. For example, a chef cooking for fun on their day off.

For a pilot, flying a small plane for fun is a bit of a busman's holiday.

informal
"Holiday from reality"

— A period of time where you ignore your problems or the real world. Often used to describe immersive experiences.

Reading fantasy novels is my holiday from reality.

metaphorical
"All my holidays have come at once"

— A phrase used when many good things happen to you at the same time. Expresses great luck or joy.

I got a promotion and won the lottery; all my holidays have come at once!

informal
"To be on a permanent holiday"

— To be retired or to have no responsibilities. Sometimes used sarcastically for someone who doesn't work hard.

Since he retired, he's been on a permanent holiday.

informal
"The holiday is over"

— A phrase used to say that a pleasant or easy period of time has ended. Often used when returning to hard work.

The new manager is very strict; I think the holiday is over for us.

informal
"Home for the holidays"

— A common phrase describing the act of returning to one's family home for celebrations. Very common in songs and movies.

I can't wait to be home for the holidays this year.

neutral
"A holiday of a lifetime"

— An exceptionally wonderful or expensive holiday that you will only do once. Often a dream trip.

Our safari in Africa was truly the holiday of a lifetime.

neutral
"Take a holiday from something"

— To stop doing something for a while to rest. Can be used for habits, diets, or even people.

I'm taking a holiday from social media this month.

informal
"Holiday spirit"

— The feeling of happiness and generosity that people have during a holiday period. Especially used at Christmas.

The charity event really put everyone in the holiday spirit.

neutral
"Post-holiday blues"

— The feeling of sadness or tiredness that people often have when they return to work after a good holiday.

I have a serious case of the post-holiday blues today.

informal

혼동하기 쉬운

holliday vs Holliday

Common misspelling.

Holliday is a surname; holiday is the noun for a break.

Doc Holliday was a famous person, but I'm going on a holiday.

holliday vs Leave

Both mean time off work.

Leave is more formal and used in contracts; holiday is more general.

I'm taking sick leave, not a holiday.

holliday vs Break

Both mean a pause.

A break is usually shorter (minutes or hours); a holiday is days or weeks.

I'll take a ten-minute break, then plan my holiday.

holliday vs Festival

Both involve celebration.

A festival is the event; a holiday is the time off work for it.

We have a holiday for the film festival.

holliday vs Recess

Both mean a break.

Recess is specifically for schools or governments.

The kids are at recess; the summer holiday starts in June.

문장 패턴

A1

I like [Holiday Type].

I like summer holidays.

A2

I went to [Place] on holiday.

I went to Italy on holiday.

B1

I am looking forward to [Holiday].

I am looking forward to the Christmas holiday.

B2

Taking a holiday allows me to [Action].

Taking a holiday allows me to recharge my batteries.

C1

The holiday was a welcome break from [Situation].

The holiday was a welcome break from the daily grind.

C2

The concept of the holiday is intrinsic to [Concept].

The concept of the holiday is intrinsic to modern labor rights.

B1

We decided to book a [Adjective] holiday.

We decided to book a luxury holiday.

A2

Is [Day] a holiday?

Is Monday a holiday?

어휘 가족

명사

holiday
holiday-maker
holidaying

동사

holiday

형용사

holiday
holiday-like

관련

vacation
leisure
recreation
festivity
celebration

사용법

frequency

Extremely high in daily conversation and media.

자주 하는 실수
  • I am going to holiday. I am going on holiday.

    You need the preposition 'on' to describe the state of taking a holiday.

  • I had a great holliday. I had a great holiday.

    Holiday is spelled with one 'l'. 'Holliday' is a common spelling error.

  • We are in holiday in Spain. We are on holiday in Spain.

    The correct preposition for being in the state of a holiday is 'on', not 'in'.

  • I'm taking a vacation for Christmas. I'm taking a holiday for Christmas. (In UK)

    While 'vacation' is okay in the US, in the UK, 'holiday' is used for both trips and festive days.

  • The school holiday is starting. The school holidays are starting.

    When referring to the long break from school, the plural 'holidays' is more natural.

One 'L' Only

Always remember that 'holiday' comes from 'holy day'. Since 'holy' has one 'l', 'holiday' also has one 'l'. Avoid writing 'holliday'.

Use 'On'

The most common preposition to use with holiday is 'on'. You go 'on holiday', you are 'on holiday', and you meet people 'on holiday'.

UK vs US

If you are in London, say 'holiday'. If you are in New York, say 'vacation' for trips and 'holiday' for national days. This will help you sound more local.

Compound Nouns

Learn compound nouns like 'holiday resort', 'holiday destination', and 'holiday insurance' to talk about travel more fluently.

Annual Leave

In a professional office environment, use the term 'annual leave' when discussing your holiday time with HR or your manager.

Stress the First

Always put the emphasis on the first part of the word: HOL-i-day. This makes your pronunciation clear and easy to understand.

Specific Adjectives

Instead of saying a 'good holiday', try using 'memorable', 'relaxing', 'adventurous', or 'well-deserved' to make your writing more interesting.

Icebreaker

Asking someone about their last or next holiday is one of the best ways to start a friendly conversation in English.

Context Clues

If you hear 'bank holiday', expect businesses to be closed. If you hear 'holiday season', expect crowds and sales.

Busman's Holiday

Use the phrase 'busman's holiday' to describe someone who does their work even when they are supposed to be resting. It's a great advanced idiom.

암기하기

기억법

Think of a 'Holy Day' where you say 'Hooray!' because you don't have to work. The single 'l' in 'holy' matches the single 'l' in 'holiday'.

시각적 연상

Imagine a bright yellow sun (the 'o' in holiday) shining over a beach umbrella. The umbrella looks like the letter 'h'.

Word Web

Beach Passport Suitcase Relax Sun Travel Family No Work

챌린지

Try to use the word 'holiday' in three different ways today: once for a trip, once for a public day off, and once as a compound noun like 'holiday plans'.

어원

The word 'holiday' comes from the Old English word 'haligdaeg.' This was a combination of 'halig' (holy) and 'daeg' (day). Originally, it referred specifically to religious feast days.

원래 의미: A holy day or a day of religious observance.

Germanic (Old English).

문화적 맥락

Be aware that not everyone celebrates the same holidays. Using 'Happy Holidays' is often seen as more inclusive than 'Merry Christmas' in diverse settings.

In the UK, 'bank holidays' are the standard public holidays. In the US, 'federal holidays' are the equivalent.

The song 'Holiday' by Madonna. The movie 'The Holiday' starring Cameron Diaz and Jude Law. The Billie Holiday (famous jazz singer, though it's a name).

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

Travel Planning

  • Book a holiday
  • Holiday destination
  • Travel insurance
  • Holiday package

Workplace

  • Holiday entitlement
  • Request a holiday
  • Paid holiday
  • Holiday coverage

School

  • School holidays
  • Half-term
  • Summer break
  • Holiday homework

Socializing

  • Where are you going on holiday?
  • How was your holiday?
  • Happy holidays!
  • Holiday snaps

Public Events

  • Public holiday
  • Bank holiday
  • National holiday
  • Holiday weekend

대화 시작하기

"Do you have any plans for the upcoming summer holiday?"

"What was the best holiday you have ever been on?"

"Do you prefer relaxing beach holidays or active city breaks?"

"If you could go on holiday anywhere in the world, where would it be?"

"How do you usually spend your winter holidays?"

일기 주제

Describe your ideal holiday destination and what you would do there.

Write about a holiday memory that makes you feel happy.

Do you think holidays are important for mental health? Why or why not?

Compare a holiday you took as a child to a holiday you took recently.

If you had a one-month holiday with no budget limit, how would you spend it?

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

The correct spelling is 'holiday' with only one 'l'. The word comes from 'holy' and 'day'. 'Holliday' is a common misspelling or a surname. For example, you would write, 'I am going on holiday next week.'

In the UK and Ireland, a bank holiday is a public holiday when banks and many other businesses are closed. They usually fall on Mondays, creating a long weekend. For example, 'The August bank holiday is a popular time for trips.'

Yes, in British English, you can use 'holidaying' to mean spending a holiday. For example, 'They are holidaying in Scotland.' However, in American English, 'vacationing' is much more common.

In British English, 'holiday' is used for everything. In American English, 'holiday' is for national days like Thanksgiving, and 'vacation' is for personal trips. For example, an American might say, 'I'm taking a vacation for the Christmas holiday.'

You can say, 'I would like to request some holiday leave' or 'I'm planning to take a holiday in July.' In a formal setting, 'annual leave' is often used. For example, 'I've submitted my annual leave request for my summer holiday.'

It means you are currently taking your break or are away on a trip. For example, 'Where is Sarah?' 'She's on holiday.' It is the most natural way to describe the state of being on a break.

Yes, Christmas is a major holiday in many countries. It is both a religious 'holy day' and a secular public holiday. For example, 'We always decorate the tree during the Christmas holiday.'

A staycation is a holiday where you stay at home or in your own country instead of traveling abroad. It's a mix of 'stay' and 'vacation'. For example, 'We're having a staycation this year to explore our local area.'

Both are used, but 'Happy Holidays' (plural) is very common in the US to cover the whole season from late November to early January. It is an inclusive way to greet people. For example, 'Happy Holidays to you and your family!'

A package holiday is a trip where you pay one price for everything, including flights, hotels, and sometimes food. It is organized by a travel agent. For example, 'We booked a package holiday to Spain because it was easier.'

셀프 테스트 190 질문

writing

Describe your last holiday in three sentences.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write a short email to your boss requesting a holiday.

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writing

What are the advantages of a staycation?

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writing

Compare British and American usage of the word 'holiday'.

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writing

Discuss the environmental impact of the holiday industry.

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writing

Write a postcard from a holiday destination.

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writing

What is your dream holiday? Explain why.

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writing

Describe a traditional holiday in your country.

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writing

How do holidays help with work-life balance?

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writing

Write a short story about a holiday that went wrong.

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writing

List five things you always pack for a holiday.

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writing

Explain the meaning of 'a busman's holiday' with an example.

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writing

Write a review of a holiday resort you visited.

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writing

What does 'holiday spirit' mean to you?

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writing

Discuss the history of the word 'holiday'.

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writing

Write a dialogue between two friends planning a holiday.

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writing

How has the internet changed how we book holidays?

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writing

Describe the feeling of 'post-holiday blues'.

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writing

What is the most important public holiday in your country?

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writing

Should there be more public holidays? Why?

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speaking

Talk about your favorite holiday destination for 1 minute.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Explain how you plan a holiday from start to finish.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Discuss the pros and cons of package holidays.

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speaking

How do holidays in your country differ from those in the UK?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

What is the future of the holiday industry in a digital world?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Describe a holiday memory from your childhood.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Why is it important to take holidays from work?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

What would you do on a 'holiday of a lifetime'?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Discuss the concept of 'sustainable holidays'.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Tell a story about a funny thing that happened on holiday.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

How do you feel before and after a holiday?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

What are the most popular holidays in your culture?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Do you prefer a staycation or traveling abroad? Why?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

How do you handle 'post-holiday blues'?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

What is the most relaxing holiday you've ever had?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Describe a 'busman's holiday' you or someone you know has taken.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

What are the essential items for a beach holiday?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

How do public holidays affect the economy?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Talk about a holiday tradition you enjoy.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

What is the best way to spend a bank holiday weekend?

Read this aloud:

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listening

Listen to the audio (simulated): 'I'm going on holiday to Spain.' Where is the speaker going?

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정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to the audio (simulated): 'We need to book our summer holiday soon.' When is the holiday?

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listening

Listen to the audio (simulated): 'Monday is a bank holiday, so don't come to work.' Should the person go to work on Monday?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to the audio (simulated): 'I've got twenty days of paid holiday a year.' How many days does the speaker have?

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listening

Listen to the audio (simulated): 'The holiday resort was amazing, but the flight was delayed.' What was the problem?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
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listening

Listen to the audio (simulated): 'I'm taking a sabbatical to travel around Asia.' What is the speaker doing?

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정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to the audio (simulated): 'We decided on a staycation this year to save money.' Why a staycation?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to the audio (simulated): 'The holiday spirit was everywhere in the city.' What was everywhere?

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정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to the audio (simulated): 'I'm suffering from post-holiday blues today.' How does the speaker feel?

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listening

Listen to the audio (simulated): 'Is it a public holiday today?' What is the speaker asking?

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listening

Listen to the audio (simulated): 'We booked a package holiday for the whole family.' Who is the holiday for?

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listening

Listen to the audio (simulated): 'The holiday rep met us at the airport.' Where did they meet?

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listening

Listen to the audio (simulated): 'I'm looking for a relaxing holiday destination.' What kind of destination?

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listening

Listen to the audio (simulated): 'Statutory holidays are important for worker rights.' What are they important for?

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listening

Listen to the audio (simulated): 'The summer holidays are finally here!' What is the speaker excited about?

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/ 190 correct

Perfect score!

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