German Phrase
Die Ferien sind im Dezember.
Meaning
This sentence states that a specific holiday or break period takes place during the month of December. In German, the term 'Ferien' specifically refers to school or institutional breaks rather than personal vacation time from a job.
When to use
Use this phrase when discussing school schedules, academic calendars, or planning for the winter break period. It is appropriate in both formal and informal conversations regarding holiday timing.
✦Grammar Breakdown
DieFeriensindimDezember
Plural Nouns
The word 'Ferien' is always plural in German, similar to the English word 'scissors' or 'pants'.
Prepositions with Months
Use 'im' (a contraction of 'in dem') for months and seasons to indicate when something happens.
🗨In Conversation
Wann habt ihr schulfrei?
When do you have no school?
Die Ferien sind im Dezember.
The holidays are in December.
✕Common Mistakes
Der Ferien ist im Dezember.
'Ferien' is a plurale tantum, meaning it is always plural. Use 'die' and 'sind' instead.
Die Ferien sind in Dezember.
German uses the contraction 'im' (in + dem) for months, never just 'in'.
↔Alternatives
Wir haben im Dezember Ferien.
We have holidays in December.
Die Weihnachtsferien beginnen im Dezember.
The Christmas holidays begin in December.
Cultural Tip
In Germany, 'Ferien' refers to school holidays, which are determined by each individual federal state. December is particularly significant due to the 'Weihnachtsferien' (Christmas holidays), which usually coincide with the famous German Christmas markets.