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Vocabulary and Phrases for Halloween and Thanksgiving

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Holidays like Halloween and Thanksgiving are not just days for fun or celebration—they reflect cultural traditions and values. If you’re learning English, knowing these holidays will help you better understand English-speaking countries’ traditions.

Below are the most essential words and expressions related to each holiday.

Halloween Vocabulary and Phrases

Here are words and expressions you’ll often hear around Halloween:

Common Vocabulary

Word/PhraseMeaning
Trick or TreatA phrase children use to ask for candy when knocking on doors
CostumeClothes worn to disguise yourself, often as ghosts or characters
Jack-o’-lanternA carved pumpkin with a candle inside, usually with a scary face
Haunted HouseA house decorated to be scary for fun
WitchA woman believed to have magical powers, often depicted with a hat and broom
GhostA spirit of the dead that is said to haunt people or places
CandySweets given to children during trick-or-treating

Useful Halloween Phrases

PhraseUsage
“Trick or Treat!”Said by children when they knock on doors
“Boo! Did I scare you?”A playful way to surprise someone
“Have a spook-tacular night!”A fun way to wish someone a great Halloween
“Happy Halloween!”A common greeting on Halloween

Thanksgiving Vocabulary and Phrases

Thanksgiving vocabulary focuses on gratitude, family, and traditional foods.

Common Vocabulary

Word/PhraseMeaning
TurkeyA large bird, traditionally eaten on Thanksgiving
StuffingA mixture of bread, herbs, and vegetables used to fill a turkey
GravyA sauce made from meat juices, often poured over mashed potatoes
Pumpkin PieA dessert made from pumpkin filling and spices
FeastA large meal, usually with many dishes
ParadeA public procession with floats and performances
Football GameA sports event often watched on Thanksgiving

Useful Thanksgiving Phrases

PhraseUsage
“Happy Thanksgiving!”A common greeting on Thanksgiving
“What are you thankful for?”A question asked during Thanksgiving meals
“Pass the gravy, please.”A polite way to ask for food at the table
“I’m stuffed!”A way to say you’ve eaten too much

Comparison Table: Halloween vs. Thanksgiving Vocabulary

AspectHalloween VocabularyThanksgiving Vocabulary
Greetings“Happy Halloween!”“Happy Thanksgiving!”
FoodCandy, caramel applesTurkey, pumpkin pie, stuffing
ActivitiesTrick-or-treating, costumesFeasts, parades, football
ThemesScary, funGratitude, family

How These Holidays Help Your English

what pumpkin are you today

Learning about these holidays helps you:

  • Improve Vocabulary: New words related to cultural traditions.
  • Practice Small Talk: Use phrases like “Happy Thanksgiving!” or “Trick or Treat!” in conversations.
  • Engage in Cultural Conversations: These holidays often come up in small talk with native speakers.

Halloween PDF Download

Halloween Word Search PDF – download

Halloween Vocabulary Cards PDF – download

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