salary - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
salary Word Meanings
- a fixed regular payment, typically paid on a monthly basis
- compensation for work done
- earnings received from employment
salary Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
salary Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
//ˈsæləri/
US
//ˈsæləri/
salary Word Etymology
sal- = salt, -ary = relating to; 'salary' comes from Latin 'salarium', originally meaning payments made to Roman soldiers for purchasing salt. Visualize a Roman soldier receiving coins to buy salt, an essential commodity for preserving food.
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 sit at my desk, pull up my paycheck page, and move the cursor to the salary line. The number shifts as months pass, and I push back at distractions to hold focus. I feel the effort in my hands and back, a quiet tension that makes me adjust plans and choices. That feeling—knowing what I earn shapes what I can keep and what I can spend—stays with me as I walk toward bigger goals.
Real Context
Salary is the fixed amount you receive regularly from an employer, usually every month, in exchange for your work. It is different from wages, which can be paid hourly or weekly. In many professions, your salary is discussed as an annual figure and used in negotiations, benefits, and bonuses. People often talk about raises, promotions, salary bands, and the tax you pay on income. When applying for jobs, you may see a stated salary or ask about it during interviews. Payroll, pay slips, and retirement contributions all relate to salary. Note that 'salary' implies consistency and long-term pay rather than irregular, piece-rate earnings.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: use salary for fixed, regular pay; compare with wage for hourly work; discuss annual figures in formal talks; total compensation may include bonuses; tax and deductions affect take-home pay; ask about benefits beyond base salary.
Common Misconceptions
- Salary and wages are the same concept
- Salary always includes overtime or bonuses by default
- Salary means your take-home pay after taxes
- Salary automatically increases with tenure
- Salary is the same everywhere; it does not vary by country
Thinking Differences
English learners often see salary as a fixed, yearly figure and may conflate it with other pay terms like wage or pay. They also tend to assume raises happen automatically with time and may misinterpret salary discussions as aggressive or inappropriate in early interviews.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations: annual salary, base salary, gross vs net, salary range, salary negotiation, total compensation.
- Practice distinguishing salary from wage and pay in context.
- Role-play job offers: state a salary, ask for more, and discuss benefits.
- Note how currency, tax, and deductions affect take-home pay.
- Track regional differences: some countries emphasize gross salary, others net.
- Use a salary calculator or real offers to compare offers accurately.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'salary'?
A.Regular payment for work
B.Payment for goods
C.Colorful clothing
D.Ability to play an instrument
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'salary' correctly?
A.She likes to water her plants with her salary.
B.He received a promotion and a higher salary.
C.Salary is the name of her pet dog.
D.The salary of the rainbow was beautiful.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is the most similar word to 'salary'?
A.Income
B.Sunny
C.Whisper
D.Jump
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'salary'?
A.Debt
B.Joy
C.Sleep
D.Happiness
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario related to 'salary'?
A.She received her monthly salary and paid her bills.
B.He went for a walk in the park.
C.They planted new flowers in the garden.
D.They adopted a new puppy from the shelter.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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