Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays? Why wishing ‘Merry Christmas’ is politically incorrect and what to say instead

Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays? Why wishing ‘Merry Christmas’ is politically incorrect and what to say instead
Santa Claus decorations (Getty Images)

Christmas has almost arrived and while it is time to exchange pleasantries — this year it would be mostly virtual meet-ups and couriered presents due to the coronavirus pandemic. However, the debate over whether to wish “Merry Christmas” or “Happy Holidays” seems to have resurfaced again. So, is there a politically correct way to wish someone during this festive season?

According to a Grammarly blog, “This debate isn’t just about words: it’s about being politically correct and inclusive of diverse beliefs and traditions across the country.” In the blog, Alice EM Underwood states that wishing “Merry Christmas” to someone who celebrates Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or nothing at all could lead them to feel left out.

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The blog also acknowledges the other situation where someone who celebrates Christmas might also feel bad, but they reason, “Think of it this way: 'Happy Holidays' includes Christmas as one of those holidays and 'Merry Christmas' leaves out everything other than Christmas.”

(Getty Images)