It is officially the holiday season! During the month of December, you may hear the phrase “Happy Holidays” all around you.  There is a lot of meaning behind this phrase, and it stands for multiple things.

“Happy Holidays” is used mostly in the United States and Canada. You can also hear the phrase in many other countries though. It is a common greeting during the winter holiday and Christmas season. Sometimes it is said for Thanksgiving but is most commonly used for Diwali, Hanukkah, the winter solstice, Christmas, Kwanzaa, and New Years.  There are more holidays celebrated during this time of year, but these are the most common.

When someone wishes you a “Happy Holidays,” you can simply respond by saying “You too!” and “Thanks, same to you.” Two more phrases that mean the same include “Seasons Greetings” and “Warmest Wishes.”

If you know that someone celebrates Christmas, you can say “Merry Christmas,” but if you are unsure, then it is best to say “Happy Holidays.” “Happy Holidays” is a more general term to use instead of saying “Merry Christmas.” Saying “Merry Christmas” isn’t considered rude, but it is more polite to say “Happy Holidays” to someone if you don’t know what holiday they celebrate.

During this holiday season, don’t forget to wish someone “Happy Holidays!”