semester break
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semester break
The period without classes between two semesters at a university or college. The term is used almost exclusively in the plural in German.
In den Semesterferien werde ich ein Praktikum machen.
During the semester break, I'm going to do an internship.
The word is made up of 'Semester' (semester) and 'Ferien' (vacation/break). The '-s-' in the middle is a linking sound that connects the two nouns.
Die Semesterferien beginnen nächste Woche.
The semester break starts next week.
'Semesterferien' (semester break) is used almost exclusively in the plural, even when you are talking about just one break period. The singular 'die Semesterferie' theoretically exists, but it is not used in everyday language.
Was machst du in diesen Semesterferien?
What are you doing during this semester break?
This word is used specifically for the lecture-free period at universities and colleges. It describes the break between the lecture periods of an academic year.
Als Studentin freue ich mich immer auf die Semesterferien.
As a student, I always look forward to the semester break.
vacation / leave
'der Urlaub' and 'die Semesterferien' both have to do with free time, but they belong to different situations. 'Urlaub' is time off that you take or receive from work, or sometimes from other obligations. 'Semesterferien' is the period without classes at a university or college. Students do not necessarily have completely free time during the semester break, because they often take exams or work. The words can be confused because you can also go on vacation during the semester break. But 'Semesterferien' is the university period, while 'Urlaub' is personal free time or a trip.
In den Semesterferien lernt Mila für zwei Prüfungen und besucht ihre Eltern.
During the semester break, Mila studies for two exams and visits her parents.
Meine Kollegin nimmt im August zwei Wochen Urlaub.
My colleague is taking two weeks of vacation in August.