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How To Say "Holiday" In Spanish

Holidays are a great way to relax and unwind from our busy schedules, and if you are planning a trip to a Spanish-speaking country, it is important to know how to say "holiday" in Spanish. In this article, we will explore the different meanings of "holiday" in Spanish, regional differences, and provide you with some sample sentences to help you confidently communicate with locals.

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What is "Holiday" in Spanish?

In Spanish, "holiday" can be translated as "vacaciones", which is pronounced as /ba.kaˈsjones/ in Castilian Spanish or /ba.kaˈsjõnes/ in Latin American Spanish. However, the word "Holiday" has different meanings depending on the context in which it is used.

Meaning of "Holiday" in Spanish

  • "Vacaciones" refers to a period of time when a person takes a break from work or school to rest or travel.
  • Día festivo (IPA: /ˈdi.a fes.ˈti.vo/) or feriado (IPA: /fe.ˈɾja.ðo/) refers to a public holiday or a day when people don't have to work or attend school due to a special occasion or event.
  • Descanso (IPA: /des.ˈkan.so/) refers to a break or rest period during work or school, which is usually shorter than "vacaciones".

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Regional Differences

Just like in English, there are regional differences in Spanish when it comes to the use of certain words. For example, in Spain, the word puente (Bridge) is used to refer to a long weekend or a break that is taken between a holiday and a weekend. In Latin America, the word fin de semana largo (Long weekend) is used instead.

Another example is the word feriado (IPA: /feˈɾjaðo/), which is used in most Latin American countries to refer to a public holiday. However, in Spain, the word "festivo" is used instead.

How to Say "Holiday" in Spanish: Sample Sentences

Here are five sample sentences you can use to say "holiday" in Spanish:

  • Quiero reservar mis vacaciones en España.

(I want to book my holiday in Spain.)

  • ¿Es mañana un día festivo en México?

(Is tomorrow a public holiday in Mexico?)

  • Necesito tomar un descanso después de trabajar tanto tiempo.

(I need to take a break after working so hard.)

  • ¿Qué planes tienes para tus vacaciones de verano?

(What are your plans for your summer holiday?)

  • Este año no voy a tener vacaciones.

(I'm not going to have holidays this year.)

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Conclusion

In conclusion, knowing how to say "holiday" in Spanish can be incredibly helpful if you are planning a trip to a Spanish-speaking country. Keep in mind the different meanings and regional differences, and use the translations and sample sentences provided to confidently communicate with locals. Whether you are taking a break from work or school or planning a fun trip, learning how to say "holiday" in Spanish is a great first step.


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