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Autumn vs fall: Is there a difference?
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, “Both are used in American and British English, but fall occurs more often in American English. Autumn is considered the more formal name for the season.” You can read their brief history of the two words here.
Keep in mind that the definite article “the” can be used with seasons but is often left out. You can say “I love fall” or “I love the fall” - both are correct!
Also, did you know that autumn has an adjective form, autumnal? It means “characteristic of autumn or occurring in autumn.”
What happens in (the) fall
In fall, leaves change colour. We can say that they turn red, yellow, and orange. Eventually, trees shed or lose their leaves as they fall to the ground.
The weather starts to cool down/off and evenings get chilly. We can say that there is a chill in the air. As winter nears, the morning dew (tiny drops of water) may become frost (a thin layer of ice).
Fall is the season when we harvest (gather; collect) many crops (plants that are grown as food) and celebrate these harvests with festivals, fairs, and other special events such as Thanksgiving. We tend to eat lots of food that is in season (grown or available during a specific season).
Canadians celebrate Thanksgiving in October, while Americans celebrate it in November. It’s a time for family gatherings and big feasts. One of the symbols of Thanksgiving is the cornucopia, which is an ornamental container shaped like a goat’s horn overflowing with flowers and food (try searching for an image of it!).
While humans are harvesting their crops, many animals are also gathering food. Squirrels gather nuts, which is where the expression “to squirrel something away” (to hide something valuable in a safe place) comes from. Other animals, such as bears, are preparing to hibernate (sleep through the winter).
Of course, we can’t forget about Halloween, which is celebrated on October 31st. Halloween has a fascinating history that combines many cultures, religions, and traditions. At this time of year, people can dress up / wear costumes and put up spooky decor (slightly scary or creepy decorations) in their homes and workplaces.
Eventually, fall will give way to winter, but let’s enjoy it for now! It’s my favourite season of the year!
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