Understanding the Difference Between Bi-weekly and Semi-weekly

Bi-weekly vs Semi-weekly: Understanding the Difference

Two words, “bi-weekly” and “semi-weekly,” can be a bit confusing. But don’t worry. We will help you understand them easily.

History of Bi-weekly and Semi-weekly

“Bi-weekly” comes from the prefix “bi-” which means “two.” So, bi-weekly means “every two weeks.”

“Semi-weekly” comes from the prefix “semi-” which means “half.” So, semi-weekly means “twice a week.”

How to Use Them

“Bi-weekly” means something happens once every two weeks.

“Semi-weekly” means something happens twice in one week.

Trick to Remember the Difference

Think of “bi-“ as telling you about “two” weeks. Think of “semi-“ as telling you about “half” a week.

Examples for Bi-weekly

1. I get a bi-weekly newsletter from my school.
2. Our book club meets bi-weekly, every other Monday.
3. The bi-weekly meeting was canceled this week.
4. She gets paid bi-weekly, every second Friday.
5. The city cleans the park bi-weekly on Wednesdays.

Examples for Semi-weekly

1. We have semi-weekly gym classes on Monday and Thursday.
2. My English tutor gives me semi-weekly homework.
3. The local paper is published semi-weekly.
4. I water my plants semi-weekly to keep them healthy.
5. The team meets semi-weekly for practice.

Summary

“Bi-weekly” means “once every two weeks,” and “semi-weekly” means “twice a week.”

Remember: “Bi-” tells you about “two” weeks, and “semi-” tells you about “half” a week.