unemployment - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
unemployment Word Meanings
- the state of not having a job
- the number of people without jobs in an economy
- a period when someone is without work
unemployment Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
unemployment Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌʌnɪmˈplɔɪmənt/
US
/ˌʌnɪmˈplɔɪmənt/
unemployment Word Etymology
un- = not + employ = use; Latin 'employare' (to use) → Old French 'employer' → English. Picture an empty job site where nobody is busy working, emphasizing lack of employment for individuals.
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 roll out of bed, push the covers aside, and rub the sleep from my eyes. A quiet shift in the morning light makes the room feel heavier as I place my mug on the counter and scan the calendar, days without work piling up. I adjust my plan, turn toward new tasks, and keep breathing as the hours change pace and bills stay the same. The word unemployment sits in the air the moment I recognize this state, not to define me but to shape how I move through the day.
Real Context
Unemployment refers to the condition of not having paid work when you want or need to work. It can describe a person who is actively looking for work but unable to find it, as well as the overall level of joblessness in an economy. The unemployment rate is a figure used by governments to gauge economic health and to plan policy. People might be unemployed for short periods during transitions or for longer stretches after job loss or industry downturns. The term emphasizes the lack of work rather than the quality of job searches or skills.
Usage Reminders
- Unemployment is a noun, not a verb.
- Use unemployment with rate or level.
- Describe a person or economy? specify.
- Unemployment can take adjectives like high or rising.
- Avoid confusing unemployment with being unemployed.
Common Misconceptions
- Unemployment means you personally chose not to work.
- If you are not actively looking for work, you're not unemployed.
- Unemployment equals poverty or laziness.
- The unemployment rate counts people who are not seeking work.
- Unemployment is permanent and never changes.
Thinking Differences
Unemployment in English is treated as both a state of not having work and a statistical measure; learners often confuse it with being unemployed or with poverty, and may misuse 'unemployment' with phrases where 'unemployed' or 'unemployment rate' are more appropriate.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations: unemployment rate, unemployment benefits, long-term unemployment.
- Note the difference between unemployed (adjective) and unemployment (noun).
- Use unemployment with modifiers like high or rising.
- Practice with both person-focused and economy-focused sentences.
- Read news or reports about job markets to see the word in use.
- Learn related phrases such as to be unemployed and unemployment benefits.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'unemployment'?
A.Job
B.Employment
C.Salary
D.Not having a job
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'unemployment' correctly?
A.She just got a new job, ending her unemployment.
B.I enjoy my unemployment at the beach.
C.Unemployment is necessary for a healthy society.
D.The company offered him unemployment benefits.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'unemployment'?
A.Joblessness
B.Occupation
C.Employment
D.Career
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'unemployment'?
A.Vacation
B.Retirement
C.Promotion
D.Employment
Step 5: Mastery
How does 'unemployment' impact a country's economy?
A.It can result in social unrest.
B.It leads to higher consumer spending.
C.It improves economic growth.
D.It doesn't affect the economy.
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