Word: Daylight-Saving Time
Definition:
Daylight-saving time (often abbreviated as DST) is the practice of setting the clocks forward by one hour during the warmer months (usually spring to fall) so that evenings have more daylight and mornings have less. This means that when you would normally say it is 6:00 PM, during daylight-saving time, it would be 7:00 PM.
Usage Instructions:
- Daylight-saving time is typically observed in many countries, especially in North America and Europe. - It usually begins in spring and ends in fall. In the United States, for example, it starts on the second Sunday in March and ends on the first Sunday in November. - People often adjust their clocks forward by one hour in the spring ("spring forward") and set them back by one hour in the fall ("fall back").
Example Sentence:
"We need to remember to change the clocks for daylight-saving time this weekend!"
Advanced Usage:
- Daylight-saving time can affect various aspects of daily life, such as energy consumption, travel schedules, and even health, as the change in time can disrupt sleep patterns. - Some people argue for the elimination of daylight-saving time, claiming that the change is unnecessary and confusing.
Word Variants:
- Daylight Saving Time (no 's' in 'saving'): This is the more commonly used spelling in official contexts. - DST: The abbreviation for daylight-saving time.
Different Meaning:
Daylight-saving time does not have a different meaning; it is specifically related to the practice of adjusting clocks.
Synonyms:
There are no direct synonyms for "daylight-saving time," but you might encounter phrases like "summer time" in some countries.
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
- There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to daylight-saving time. However, the phrases "spring forward" and "fall back" are commonly used to describe the clock changes associated with DST.
Note for Learners:
When discussing daylight-saving time, remember that not all regions observe it. Some places keep the same time all year round.