What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hacienda
Example
The family spent their vacation at a beautiful hacienda in Mexico. [hacienda: noun]
Example
The owner of the hacienda raised cattle and grew crops on the vast land. [hacienda: noun]
plantation
Example
The plantation owner made a fortune from selling sugar cane. [plantation: noun]
Example
Slavery was a common practice on plantations in the southern United States. [plantation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Plantation is more commonly used than hacienda in everyday language, especially in the context of American history and literature. Hacienda is less common and is more likely to be used in travel or tourism contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hacienda and plantation?
Both hacienda and plantation are associated with a formal tone due to their historical significance and association with wealth and luxury.