What Is the Synonym and Antonym of Vacation?

By Robert Palmer

Vacation is a term that we all are familiar with. It refers to a period of time when people take a break from their regular work or routine to relax and rejuvenate.

However, there might be times when we want to use different words instead of “vacation” for various reasons such as avoiding repetition, adding variety to our vocabulary, or expressing a different meaning. In this article, we will explore the synonyms and antonyms of “vacation” and understand their usage in the English language.

Synonyms of Vacation

1. Holiday: Holiday is one of the most common synonyms for vacation. It refers to a day or period of time when people do not work and engage in leisure activities instead.

2. Leave: Leave is another synonym for vacation that refers to an authorized absence from work or duty.

3. Break: Break is a term that can be used interchangeably with vacation. It refers to a short period of time during which people take rest from their regular activities.

4. Recess: Recess is a synonym for vacation that is often used in the context of school or college. It refers to a break between classes or semesters.

5. Getaway: Getaway can be used as a synonym for vacation when referring to a short trip or escape from daily routine.

  • Example: I am planning a getaway with my friends next week.
  • Example: We are going on holiday to Hawaii next month.
  • Example: I need to take some leave from work due to personal reasons.
  • Example: Let’s take a break and go for a walk.
  • Example: The school is closed for recess during summers.

Antonyms of Vacation

1. Work: Work is the direct opposite of vacation. It refers to the activity of performing tasks or duties to earn a living. Employment: Employment is another antonym for vacation that refers to a person’s regular job or occupation. Duty: Duty is a term that can be used as an antonym for vacation when referring to the responsibilities and obligations that one has towards their work or organization. Obligation: Obligation is an antonym for vacation that refers to a duty or commitment that one has towards their work, family, or society. Responsibility: Responsibility is another antonym for vacation that refers to the duties and obligations that one has towards their work, family, or community.

  • Example: I have to work overtime this week due to the project deadline.
  • Example: My employment contract does not allow me to take more than two weeks of vacation per year.
  • Example: I cannot take a day off from duty as I have an important meeting tomorrow.
  • Example: I have an obligation towards my family and cannot go on vacation this year.
  • Example: It is my responsibility to complete the project on time and cannot take leave at this moment.

In conclusion, while “vacation” is a commonly used term for taking a break from work or routine, there are several synonyms and antonyms that can be used instead based on the context and intended meaning. By using these words, we can add variety to our vocabulary and express ourselves more effectively in the English language.