xmas
C1Informal, commercial, casual written
Definition
Meaning
Informal abbreviation for Christmas
A shortened form representing the Christmas holiday season, commonly used in written contexts, marketing, and casual communication
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
X represents the Greek letter Chi, the first letter of Christ (Χριστός) in Greek. Often considered casual or commercial, but carries the same referential meaning as 'Christmas' in appropriate contexts.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage is similar in both varieties, though some British traditionalists may view it as more commercial or disrespectful than Americans do.
Connotations
Commercial, informal, convenient for saving space. Can be seen as secularizing or de-emphasizing the religious aspect.
Frequency
Moderately common in both varieties, especially in advertising, cards, and informal writing. Less frequent in formal or religious contexts.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
Celebrate + xmasWish someone + a merry/happy xmasSpend + xmas + location/with someoneGet ready for + xmasVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Xmas comes but once a year”
- “Like turkeys voting for Xmas”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Common in marketing, advertising, and commercial signage (e.g., 'Xmas Sale').
Academic
Avoided in formal writing; 'Christmas' is preferred.
Everyday
Used in casual written communication like text messages, social media, and greeting cards.
Technical
Not applicable.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- We decided to Xmas in Cornwall this year.
American English
- They're planning to Xmas with her family in Ohio.
adjective
British English
- The Xmas post tends to be delayed.
- She's got a lovely Xmas jumper.
American English
- The Xmas rush is always hectic at the mall.
- He put up the Xmas lights in November.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- Happy Xmas!
- I love Xmas.
- We send Xmas cards to all our friends.
- The children are excited about Xmas presents.
- Many people start their Xmas shopping in November to avoid the crowds.
- The office Xmas party is scheduled for the 20th of December.
- Some argue that writing 'Xmas' instead of 'Christmas' secularises the holiday.
- The marketing campaign's pervasive use of 'Xmas' was criticised for its commercial overtones.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
The 'X' in Xmas is like a cross, reminding us it's a shortening for Christ's mass.
Conceptual Metaphor
TIME AS A CONTAINER (the Xmas period), CELEBRATION AS A JOURNEY (counting down to Xmas).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid pronouncing it as 'eks-mas' in speech; it's always pronounced 'Christmas'.
- Do not use 'Xmas' in formal writing or religious contexts where 'Рождество' (Christmas) is expected.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'Xmas' in formal essays or religious ceremonies.
- Pronouncing the 'X' as /eks/ instead of using the full pronunciation /ˈkrɪsməs/.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary reason for the 'X' in 'Xmas'?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Opinions vary. It originated as a Christian abbreviation using the Greek Chi (Χ) for Christ. Some find it convenient or neutral, while others see it as commercial or secularising. Context and audience are key.
It is always pronounced as the full word 'Christmas' (/ˈkrɪsməs/). You do not say 'eks-mas' in standard English speech.
It is appropriate in informal written contexts like text messages, casual emails, social media, greeting cards, and commercial advertising (signs, sales). Avoid it in formal writing, academic papers, and official religious contexts.
It is used in both varieties of English with similar frequency and connotations. It is not specific to one variety.