New Year, New Year’s, or New Years? How to Get It Right in Your Greetings
Every December, millions of people write cheerful holiday messages—but many still wonder: Is it “Happy New Year,” “Happy New Year’s,” or even “Happy New Years”?
Don’t worry—Midoo AI will clear it up for you today. These phrases look similar, but they have different meanings and uses. Let’s make it simple with easy rules and examples.
“New Year” — The Holiday or the Day Itself
“New Year” refers to the holiday or the first day of the year (January 1).
- Use it when talking about the event or wishing someone well.
Examples:
- Happy New Year!
- I can’t wait for the New Year.
- The New Year starts on January 1.
💡 Tip: Use “New Year” when you mean the holiday or the start of the year.
“New Year’s” — Something That Belongs to the Holiday
“New Year’s” is possessive, meaning “of the New Year.”
- We usually see it in names of events or things related to the holiday.
Examples:
- We’re going to a New Year’s party.
- Let’s make New Year’s resolutions together.
- Did you watch the New Year’s Eve fireworks?
💡 Tip: Use “New Year’s” when something belongs to or happens during the holiday.
“New Years” — Talking About Multiple Years
“New Years” is plural, meaning more than one year.
- It’s not correct to say “Happy New Years.”
Examples:
- I’ve spent many New Years abroad.
- We’ve celebrated five New Years together.
- They shared stories about past New Years.
💡 Tip: Use “New Years” only when talking about several years, not in greetings.
Quick Recap
- ✅ Happy New Year! — correct greeting
- ✅ New Year’s party/resolutions/eve — use possessive form
- ❌ Happy New Years! — incorrect
FAQ: Common Questions About “New Year”
Q: Why do people say “New Year’s” in “New Year’s Eve”?
A: It means “the eve of the New Year.” The possessive shows it belongs to the New Year.
Q: Is it okay to say “Happy New Year’s”?
A: It’s common in casual speech, but “Happy New Year” is the correct and standard greeting.
Q: What’s the difference between “New Year’s” and “New Years”?
A: “New Year’s” is possessive (something related to the holiday), while “New Years” is plural (more than one year).
Q: Which one should I write in a greeting card?
A: Always write “Happy New Year!” on cards or messages.
Final Tip from Midoo AI
If you’re writing a holiday card or post, remember this simple rule:
- Say “Happy New Year” to greet someone
- Use “New Year’s” for things that belong to the holiday
- Use “New Years” only when talking about more than one year
Now you can write your holiday messages with confidence! 🎆