job - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
job Word Meanings
- a paid position of regular employment
- a specific task or piece of work
- a duty or responsibility
job Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
job Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dʒɒb/
US
/dʒɑb/
job Word Etymology
job = from Middle English 'gobbe' (piece, lump) + Old French 'jobbe' (lump). It originated from the idea of a single piece of work. Imagine a person taking a lump of clay to create a sculpture, representing work in progress.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I lean in, hands on the desk, and push aside a folder to clear space. I set the day’s rhythm, then shift through tasks, letting choices change as I decide what to do first. The focus feels practical—effort, small adjustments, and a quiet sense of keeping control as things move. That flow hints at a job—a steady paid role or a specific task you take on—where you shape days through work you care about.
Real Context
Job is a common noun that refers to a paid position of regular employment as well as to a specific piece of work or a set of duties within that role. It covers both the idea of a job title and the tasks you perform day to day. Learners often confuse job with work or task: work can be general effort, and a task is a single assignment; a job is a position you hold, possibly with multiple tasks. English uses phrases like apply for a job, keep a job, or lose a job. Distinctions matter when discussing career plans or temporary gigs. Etymology links to a lump or piece of work, illustrating that a job once meant a single piece of activity.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: (1) job vs work vs task; (2) two main senses: position and duties; (3) common collocations: apply for a job, keep a job, lose a job; (4) consider duration: permanent vs temporary jobs; (5) plural vs singular: a job, many jobs; (6) related terms: job title, job duties, job security
Common Misconceptions
- Job is only a future dream; it is not a current role.
- All work equals a job; any task is a job.
- Job and career are the same thing.
- You can use job to mean 'homework' or 'school assignment'.
- Losing a job means you failed as a person.
Thinking Differences
For English speakers, job centers on a concrete position or role and the duties tied to that role; it often implies employment length. Learners may overgeneralize to all work or confuse it with tasks, which leads to awkward phrases like 'I must finish this job' in non-employment contexts.
Learning Tips
- Master the two senses (position vs duties).
- Learn common collocations (apply for a job, keep a job).
- Note the duration implied by the job (permanent vs temporary).
- Differentiate job from work and task in context.
- Use related terms: job title, job duties, job security.
- Practice short, real-life sentences about career plans.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'job' correctly?
A.She painted the walls with a job of yellow.
B.He enjoys his job as a chef.
C.They went to the park to job around.
D.I job my friend a secret.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'job'?
A.Food
B.Task
C.Sleep
D.Jump
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'job'?
A.Hobby
B.Play
C.Relax
D.Study
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context for the word 'job'?
A.She enjoys playing with her cat.
B.He likes to read books in his free time.
C.He works as a software engineer in a tech company.
D.They often go hiking on weekends.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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