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excursion

ik-SKUR-zhun /ɪkˈskɜːrʒən/

nounB2IELTSTOEFLGRE

neutralformal

A short journey or trip, especially one taken as a leisure activity.

Implies a brief, organized side-trip that departs from and returns to a main base or itinerary.

The story behind the word. From Latin 'excursio', meaning 'a running out, onset, expedition', from 'excurrere' (to run out), which combines 'ex-' (out) and 'currere' (to run). It originally had a military connotation of charging out at an enemy before softening into a leisure trip.

Word relationships

outing: An outing is a very informal, casual trip (like a picnic), while an excursion is often more organized and can involve travel to a specific historic or natural site.
expedition: An expedition is a long, serious journey made for a specific purpose (like scientific research), whereas an excursion is short and primarily for pleasure.

Commonly confused with

incursion: An incursion is a hostile invasion or raid into a territory, while an excursion is a peaceful, pleasant trip.

Word family

excursionist (noun): A person who goes on an excursion; a tourist.

Collocations

day excursion
shore excursion
go on an excursion
guided excursion

Example sentences

"During our cruise, we booked a shore excursion to explore the ancient Mayan ruins." A cruise ship itinerary
"The students went on an educational excursion to the science museum." A school trip announcement

Memory hook

Think of 'ex-cursor'. A cursor moves around your screen; an excursion is when you physically 'run out' to explore a new place. An excursion is a quick run out for fun.

When not to use

Do not use for a long-term expedition, a business trip, or a permanent relocation.

Fun facts

In the 19th century, the rise of railways led to the popularity of 'excursion trains', which offered cheap tickets for day-trippers to visit the seaside.