holiday - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
holiday Word Meanings
- a day of festivity or recreation when no work is done
- a special day of rest or celebration
- a vacation or time away from work
holiday Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
holiday Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈhɒl.ɪ.deɪ/
US
/ˈhɑː.lɪ.deɪ/
holiday Word Etymology
Root decomposition: holi- = holy, day = period. Historical origin: Old English 'haligdæg', meaning 'holy day'. Memory image: Imagine a serene day filled with sacred celebrations, where people come together to honor traditions.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I reach for my calendar, move a day into focus, and set a reminder to take a break. I turn off work notifications, push back tasks, and hold the moment as the day opens. The choice to rest or explore changes how I feel and shapes what I can do the next day. That plan becomes a holiday in my mind, a space I keep to let stress fall away.
Real Context
A holiday is a day of festivity or a break from work; it can be a specific feast day or a longer vacation. In British English, you often say you are 'on holiday' or that you are going on holiday, while in American English the word is more commonly used for a public or religious celebration and not for a general vacation. The term covers both short days off from work and longer trips taken for rest, travel, or family time. Some holidays are tied to traditions, seasons, or religious events, while others are secular and widely observed. Learners should keep straight whether holiday means a single day or a period of time away.
Usage Reminders
- holiday can mean a public holiday or a vacation period
- In British English say on holiday; in American English vacation is more common for a vacation
- Holiday season is a common collocation and implies end-of-year celebrations
- Holidays can refer to multiple days off or a single festival day
- Avoid using holiday as a verb; instead say take a holiday or go on holiday
Common Misconceptions
- holiday always means a religious day
- holiday always means you must travel abroad
- in American English, holiday is used for any vacation
- holidays always refer to a single day
- holidays and vacations are always interchangeable
Thinking Differences
English uses holiday to cover both a single day and a longer break; learners often assume all holidays involve travel or that US usage mirrors UK usage. Focus on context like travel plans, public holidays, and collocations like on holiday vs vacation.
Learning Tips
- Learn the two main senses: public holiday and vacation
- Differentiate UK on holiday vs US on vacation
- Use holidays in plural for multiple days off
- Pair with season words: holiday season
- Remember common collocations: take a holiday, go on holiday
- Watch for false friends with other languages
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'holiday'?
A.Sadness
B.Celebration
C.Confusion
D.Anger
Step 2: Usage
How is the word 'holiday' used in a sentence?
A.The holiday season is my favorite time of the year.
B.He hates holidays and prefers to work.
C.She is going on a holiday next week.
D.I have never taken a holiday in my life.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'holiday'?
A.Day
B.Work
C.School
D.Vacation
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'holiday'?
A.Work
B.Everyday
C.Routine
D.Weekend
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life context where 'holiday' is used?
A.Families often plan holidays together to create memories.
B.I enjoy going on holidays by myself to relax.
C.Holiday traditions vary from culture to culture.
D.During the holiday season, people tend to be more generous.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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