Thanksgiving is a special time of year in the United States, full of traditions, food, and family gatherings. All of which make a great opportunity for F1 Visa students to be immersed in American culture. For ESL students, learning Thanksgiving vocabulary can be a fun way to connect with the holiday and improve their English skills. Here are some common words and phrases to help you talk about Thanksgiving with confidence:

Key Thanksgiving Words

• Thanksgiving: A holiday celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November in the U.S., centered around giving thanks and sharing a meal.
• Turkey: The main dish for most Thanksgiving dinners; a large bird that is roasted and served.
• Feast: A large meal shared with family and friends.
• Gravy: A sauce made from meat juices, often poured over turkey and mashed potatoes.
• Stuffing: A mixture of bread, herbs, and vegetables, traditionally cooked inside the turkey.
• Cranberry Sauce: A sweet and tangy sauce made from cranberries, often served as a side dish.
• Pumpkin Pie: A classic Thanksgiving dessert made from pumpkin, spices, and a flaky crust.

Phrases for Thanksgiving

• “Happy Thanksgiving!”: A common way to greet someone during the holiday.
• “What are you thankful for?”: A question often asked to reflect on gratitude.
• “Pass the [dish], please.”: A polite way to ask for food at the dinner table.

Practice Tip

Try using these words and phrases in sentences or conversations with your classmates. For example:

• “This year, we’re having turkey and pumpkin pie for Thanksgiving.”
• “I’m thankful for my family and friends.”

Learning holiday-specific vocabulary is a great way to deepen your understanding of American culture and become more comfortable using English in everyday situations.

From everyone at The English Island, Happy Thanksgiving!