What Queen Elizabeth II Never Said At Christmas

Even those knowing only a bit of English eagerly say and write "Merry Christmas" to friends abroad at this time, but hardly anyone ever wonders why that has become the customary phrase, rather than "Happy Christmas".

Forrás: pexels

The use of the phrase "Merry Christmas" dates back to the 16th century, when a church leader is said to have used the phrase in a letter to Henry VIII's minister. Over time, the phrase has become the most common form of Christmas greeting, thanks in part to Charles Dickens's "A Christmas Carol", which has had a profound influence in shaping the current culture of Christmas celebration;

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However, there are a few who believe that the word "merry", because of its meaning, should not be used as a Christmas greeting at all. Among them was the late British Monarch Queen Elizabeth II, who insisted on using "Happy Christmas" all her life. 

"Merry" refers to a celebration that is carefree, jolly and exuberant, whereas Christmas should be about serenity and love rather than unbridled merriment.

Leave a comment on Magyar Nemzet's TikTok account telling us which languages you know Christmas greetings in.

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Cover image: illustration (Source: Pexels)