Cool MateHoliday vs Vacation
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
| Holiday | Vacation | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | A special day when people relax and celebrate. | A break from work or school to relax or travel. |
| CEFR level | A1 | A1 |
| Part of speech | noun | noun |
| Usage notes | Used for official days off work or personal vacations. More formal when referring to public holidays; informal when discussing personal activities. | Use 'vacation' in both formal and informal contexts when discussing time off. In American English, 'vacation' is common, while British English often uses 'holiday' instead. |
Frequently asked questions: Holiday vs Vacation
What's the difference between "Holiday" and "Vacation"?
"Holiday" means: A special day when people relax and celebrate. "Vacation" means: A break from work or school to relax or travel.
When should I use "Holiday" and "Vacation"?
They can all be used in everyday English.
Are "Holiday" and "Vacation" the same CEFR level?
"Holiday" is at A1, "Vacation" is at A1 on the CEFR scale.