Grammar 101 — Why Do We Say ’Tis the Season?

You’ve probably heard the phrase ’Tis the season pop up a lot during the holidays — on Christmas cards, in festive ads, and definitely in holiday songs. But what does it really mean, and where did it come from?

Let’s break it down and explore why ’Tis the season is such a cherished part of English-speaking festive culture.

What Does ’Tis the Season Mean?

The phrase ’Tis the season is a shortened, poetic way of saying “It is the season.” But the season for what, exactly?

In most cases, the season refers to the festive period that begins in late November (around Thanksgiving in the U.S.) and runs through early January, covering celebrations like Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and New Year’s Eve. It’s a time full of cheer, giving, family gatherings, and joyful traditions — hence, the season to be jolly!

’Tis vs. T’is: Which Is Correct?

There’s often some confusion about spelling, so let’s clear it up:

Correct: ’Tis the season (apostrophe replaces the missing “i” in “it is”)
Incorrect: T’is the season (the apostrophe is misplaced)

This kind of contraction is a bit old-fashioned, but still used in poetic or festive language. You may have seen similar ones like:

• ’Twas = It was (“’Twas the night before Christmas…”)

Where Did ’Tis the Season Come From?

The phrase gained popularity thanks to the classic Christmas carol “Deck the Halls,” originally based on a 16th-century Welsh melody titled Nos Galan. The English version of the song, which we know today, includes the line:

“’Tis the season to be jolly, fa la la la la, la la la la…”

Over time, this line became iconic and is now deeply associated with holiday spirit, cheer, and togetherness.

How to Use ’Tis the Season in Conversation

Even though ’tis is rarely used outside of this specific phrase, you’ll still find it popping up in festive chats. Here are some sentence examples you can use (yes — even on your IELTS Speaking test!):

• “’Tis the season to relax and spend time with family.”
• “I love all the lights and decorations — ’tis the season after all!”
• “People are just more generous during this time of year. ’Tis the season!”

Fun Facts: Deck the Halls and More!

1. Strange Words in the Lyrics?

Ever wondered what these lyrics actually mean?

• “Boughs of holly” = Large tree branches from a holly plant (which has pointy leaves and red berries)
• “Don we now our gay apparel” = Let’s put on our festive or fancy clothes
• “Troll the ancient Yuletide carol” = Sing the old holiday songs loudly
• “Hail the new, ye lads and lasses” = Welcome the New Year, young men and women

2. Original Lyrics Were Boozy?

Yes! One early version of Deck the Halls said: “Fill the mead cup, drain the barrel.” That line was later changed to the more family-friendly: “Don we now our gay apparel.”

3. A Not-So-Fun Fact About Holly Berries

Holly berries may look festive, but they’re mildly toxic if eaten — especially for kids and pets. Stick to admiring them, not munching on them!

4. The Harry Potter Connection

Harry Potter’s wand is made of holly wood. So in a magical way, decking the halls with boughs of holly connects you with the wizarding world too.

FAQ: ’Tis the Season

Q: Can I say ’Tis the season in formal writing?
A: Not usually. This phrase is considered informal and poetic. It’s perfect for holiday cards or festive blog posts, but avoid it in academic or professional emails.

Q: Is ’Tis the season only for Christmas?
A: While it’s commonly associated with Christmas, the phrase can refer to the broader holiday season — including Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and New Year’s celebrations.

Q: Do people still use contractions like ’tis in everyday English?
A: Not anymore! ’Tis and ’twas are considered archaic. They’re mostly found in songs, poems, or historical writing.

Q: Can I say “T’is” instead of “’Tis”?
A: No — “T’is” is incorrect. The apostrophe must go before the t to correctly show the missing letter in it is.