vacation time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "vacation time" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It refers to a specific period of time when someone takes a break from work or other responsibilities to relax or travel. Here are some examples of how it can be used in a sentence: 1. "I can't wait for my vacation time next month. I'm planning to go to Hawaii." 2. "My company offers two weeks of paid vacation time every year." 3. "We usually take our family vacation time during the summer months." 4. "I need to request vacation time for the week of my sister's wedding." 5. "After months of hard work, I finally have some vacation time to unwind and recharge."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

More vacation time?

The New York Times

SEPTEMBER Vacation time is over.

The New York Times - Sports

Vacation time is spent.

The New York Times

"Definitely not vacation time.

The Washington Post

Saving vacation time for those meets.

The New York Times - Sports

But vacation time is over already.

The New York Times

"It's linked to vacation time.

The New York Times - Sports

Vacation time is another target.

The New York Times

EUROPE Too Much Vacation Time?

The New York Times - Sports

You could take vacation time.

The New York Times

Vacation time did inch higher.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Clearly specify the duration of your "vacation time" when making requests or discussing plans. For example, say "I'll be taking two weeks of vacation time" rather than just "I'm taking vacation time."

Common error

Avoid using "sick time" as interchangeable with "vacation time". Sick time is intended for illness or medical appointments, while vacation time is for leisure and planned breaks.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "vacation time" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI also points out, it designates a specific period allocated for leisure away from work or other regular duties.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Formal & Business

15%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Science

7%

Wiki

6%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "vacation time" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to refer to a period of leave from work or regular duties for leisure and relaxation. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide usage. The phrase is predominantly found in News & Media, but also frequently occurs in Formal & Business, and Academic contexts. When discussing taking or requesting time off, be clear about the duration, and remember that while sometimes interchangeable, "vacation time" is not synonymous with "sick time" or necessarily with "personal time".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

time off

This is a more general term for any absence from work or regular duties, not necessarily for leisure.

annual leave

This is a formal term, particularly used in professional settings, for the paid time off an employee is entitled to each year.

paid leave

This refers specifically to time off from work that the employee is compensated for.

holiday time

Similar to vacation time, but implies a period associated with public holidays or festive occasions.

leisure time

Focuses on the time spent on enjoyable activities, rather than absence from work.

break time

Generally refers to a shorter period of rest during work, unlike the longer duration implied by vacation.

recreational leave

Specifically implies that the time off will be used for recreational activities.

personal time

Can be used for anything, not necessarily relaxation, including personal appointments or errands.

down time

Suggests a period of inactivity and recovery, potentially due to exhaustion or stress.

time out

Indicates a temporary withdrawal from activity, often used in the context of needing a pause for mental or emotional reasons.

FAQs

How do I request "vacation time" from my employer?

Typically, you'll need to submit a formal request to your manager or HR department, following your company's specific procedures. Include the dates you'll be away and any necessary coverage plans for your responsibilities.

What are some alternatives to saying "vacation time"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "time off", "annual leave" (more formal), or "paid leave", especially when referring to company policies.

What is the difference between "vacation time" and "personal time"?

"Vacation time" is generally understood as time taken for leisure and relaxation, while "personal time" can be used for a broader range of activities, including errands, appointments, or simply needing a day off without specifying a reason.

Is it acceptable to use "vacation time" for purposes other than vacation?

While "vacation time" is primarily intended for leisure, some companies allow flexibility in its usage. Check your company's policy to see if it can be used for other purposes, such as personal days or appointments, as long as it is approved in advance.