summer and winter
The phrase "summer and winter" can refer to the literal seasons or be used idiomatically to imply year-round consistency.
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Definition
A2General
(literal)The warmest and coldest seasons of the year, respectively, occurring between spring and autumn, and autumn and spring.
Example
- Summer and winter bring different weather patterns to the region.
- In the Northern Hemisphere, summer is from June to August, while winter is from December to February.
B2Idiomatic
(idiomatic)Used to imply consistency or occurrence throughout the entire year.
Example
- She swims in the lake summer and winter, never missing a day.
- The shop is open summer and winter, catering to both tourists and locals year-round.
C1Interpersonal
(idiomatic, less common)To spend extended periods of time with someone or to test their abilities over a long duration.
Example
- They summered and wintered together, learning each other's strengths and weaknesses.
- He decided to summer and winter his new apprentice before making a final judgment.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "summer and winter":