Are you one of those who have always wondered if vacation is a British word or not? Well, the answer is not a simple yes or no. Let’s dive deeper into this topic and explore the fascinating history behind it.
The Origin of the Word ‘Vacation’
The word ‘vacation’ has Latin roots and comes from the Latin word ‘vacatio’ which means freedom or release. The term was first used in English in the 14th century to refer to a period of time when universities were closed, and students could take a break from their studies.
Is Vacation a British Word?
While some people believe that vacation is an American word, it is actually used widely in both American and British English. In fact, Britain has been using the term ‘vacation’ for hundreds of years. However, the Brits tend to use the word ‘holiday’ instead of ‘vacation.’
The Usage of Holiday vs. Vacation
In British English, people use the term ‘holiday’ to refer to time away from work or school. For example, they would say “I’m going on holiday next week.”
On the other hand, Americans tend to use the word ‘vacation’ more often than holiday. They would say “I’m going on vacation next week.”
Differences in Spelling
While both Americans and Brits use the term vacation, there are differences in spelling between American and British English. Americans spell it as ‘vacation,’ while Brits spell it as ‘vacation’. Similarly, Americans spell it as ‘color,’ while Brits spell it as ‘colour.’
Conclusion
So there you have it – vacation is not just an American word but also a commonly used term in British English. While Brits prefer using the word holiday over vacation, both terms refer to the same thing – a period of time when people take a break from their work or studies. Whether you’re an American or a Brit, it’s always good to take some time off and go on vacation/holiday to rejuvenate your mind and body.