Weekend vs. Weekends — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Maham Liaqat — Updated on April 2, 2024
"Weekend" refers to the singular concept of the period between Friday evening and Sunday night, while "weekends" implies multiple instances of this period or the habitual activities associated with them.
Difference Between Weekend and Weekends
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Key Differences
The term "weekend" is used to denote a specific period consisting of Saturday and Sunday, typically seen as a time for rest or leisure after a week of work. On the other hand, "weekends" refers to the plural form, encompassing multiple such periods or the general concept of weekends over time, often associated with recurring activities or general habits.
When planning or discussing events, "weekend" might be used to talk about plans for an upcoming Saturday and Sunday. Conversely, "weekends" could be used to discuss activities that someone regularly engages in during these days, such as going hiking or visiting family.
In terms of employment and scheduling, someone might say they work "on the weekend" if they are referring to a single upcoming weekend. If they work Saturdays and Sundays habitually, they would say they work "on weekends," indicating a regular pattern rather than a one-off occurrence.
The usage of "weekend" can also imply a focus on a particular, singular event or moment within the upcoming weekend, such as a special celebration. "Weekends," however, might be used to describe typical or recurring events that happen during this period across many weeks, such as attending weekly classes or markets.
Cultural or social discussions might use "weekend" to refer to the societal concept of the break at the end of the week, discussing its implications, history, or variations across cultures. "Weekends" could be used to discuss differences in how this time is spent across different periods, societies, or among various groups of people, highlighting habits or traditions.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
The period from Friday evening through Sunday night
Multiple instances of the weekend period
Context of Use
Specific upcoming or past weekend
Habitual activities or general trends over multiple weekends
Example Usage
Planning for a trip next weekend
Discussing activities one usually does on weekends
Implication
Focus on a single, specific period
Recurrence or habit over time
Common Associations
Single events, plans, or occasions
Patterns, habits, or recurring activities
Compare with Definitions
Weekend
Specific upcoming plans.
The festival is happening next weekend.
Weekends
General trend of rest days.
The city is livelier on weekends.
Weekend
The period from Friday evening to Sunday night.
We're going to the beach this weekend.
Weekends
Habitual leisure activities.
I volunteer at the animal shelter on weekends.
Weekend
A break for relaxation or hobbies.
I plan to paint this weekend.
Weekends
Regular time for personal projects.
I work on my novel on weekends.
Weekend
Time off from work or school.
I need to catch up on sleep this weekend.
Weekends
Recurring end-of-week periods.
We hike on weekends.
Weekend
Singular event timeframe.
My family reunion is on the weekend.
Weekends
Multiple instances of plans or events.
We have birthday parties to attend on the next few weekends.
Weekend
Saturday and Sunday, especially regarded as a time for leisure
A weekend break
Nobody wants to work on the weekend
She spent the weekend camping
I went to see the film at the weekend
Weekends
The last part of the week, typically from Friday evening through Sunday evening, but sometimes including other adjacent days, especially when seen as a time of leisure or recreation
Spent the long weekend fishing.
Weekend
Spend a weekend somewhere
He was weekending in the country
Weekends
To spend weekends or a weekend.
Weekend
The last part of the week, typically from Friday evening through Sunday evening, but sometimes including other adjacent days, especially when seen as a time of leisure or recreation
Spent the long weekend fishing.
Weekends
Plural of weekend
Weekend
To spend weekends or a weekend.
Weekends
At weekends.
Weekend
The break in the working week, usually two days including the traditional holy or sabbath day. Thus in western countries, Saturday and Sunday.
Weekend
To spend the weekend.
We'll weekend at the beach.
Weekend
Of, relating to or for the weekend.
I'm wearing my weekend shoes.
Weekend
Occurring at the weekend.
A weekend break
Weekend
A time period usually extending from Friday night through Sunday; more loosely defined as any period of successive days including one and only one Sunday
Weekend
Spend the weekend
Common Curiosities
Do all cultures observe the weekend at the same time?
Not all cultures observe the weekend on Saturday and Sunday; the specific days can vary, impacting the use of "weekend" and "weekends."
How do "weekend" and "weekends" differ in planning?
"Weekend" might be used for specific plans for an upcoming period, while "weekends" could discuss regular activities or habits.
Why do people say "weekends" in plural?
People use "weekends" to refer to habitual activities, patterns, or the general concept of weekends over time.
Can "weekend" refer to a holiday weekend?
Yes, "weekend" can refer to a holiday weekend, emphasizing a specific extended period off work or school.
Is it correct to say "every weekend"?
Yes, saying "every weekend" correctly implies the regular occurrence of something on the weekend, similar to the usage of "weekends."
What defines a weekend?
A weekend is defined as the period typically consisting of Saturday and Sunday, used for rest and leisure after a workweek.
How does work affect the concept of weekends?
Work schedules significantly influence the concept of weekends, with "weekends" often being seen as a time off from work.
Can "weekend" be used figuratively?
"Weekend" can be used figuratively to represent a break or pause in activities, not strictly limited to the actual days.
What impacts do weekends have on travel?
Weekends often see increased travel as people take short trips or visit family and friends.
How has the concept of the weekend evolved?
The concept of the weekend has evolved over time, influenced by labor movements, societal changes, and varying cultural norms.
Are weekends the same length everywhere?
The length of weekends can vary by country or employer, but they typically include two days.
Can "weekend" and "weekends" be used interchangeably?
While closely related, "weekend" and "weekends" are not always interchangeable, as they can convey different meanings related to specificity or recurrence.
Do weekends have a social significance?
Yes, weekends hold social significance, offering time for gatherings, community events, and cultural observances.
How do businesses adapt to weekends?
Many businesses adapt by altering hours or offering weekend-specific services or promotions.
How do weekends influence leisure activities?
Leisure activities often peak on weekends, with more events, entertainment options, and personal projects undertaken.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
