Meaning of Word: Career
Definitions and Meaning in English:
- Career (noun): An individual’s course or progress in a particular profession, occupation, or field over an extended period of time.
- Career (noun, in a broader sense): The pursuit of a lifelong ambition or the general course of progression in life, particularly in terms of professional development.
- Career (verb, rare): To move swiftly and with great speed, often used in the context of vehicles or objects.
History and Origin: The word “career” comes from the Latin carrus, meaning “a wheeled vehicle” or “cart,” which later evolved to carrera in Spanish, meaning “racecourse” or “course.” By the 16th century, the term began to be used in English to refer to a person’s life journey or the professional path they take. Over time, it expanded to refer specifically to a person’s work life and their long-term professional growth.
Detailed Explanation: A “career” typically refers to the series of jobs or positions a person holds over the course of their working life, often in the same field or related areas. It can involve ongoing professional development, achievements, and the pursuit of specific goals within a particular occupation. A career is usually distinguished from a “job” because it represents a long-term, goal-oriented pursuit that may require continuous education or skill development. While a job is something a person does temporarily or for monetary compensation, a career typically encompasses a broader scope of personal fulfillment, advancement, and purpose.
Example Sentences:
- She decided to pursue a career in medicine after completing her studies in biology.
- His career in engineering spanned over three decades, leading to multiple leadership roles.
- After years of working in finance, he changed careers and became a teacher.
- She was dedicated to her career in law and achieved many professional milestones.
- The company offers career development programs to help employees advance.
- He’s been in the IT career for more than ten years and is now a senior developer.
- Choosing a career path early on can help you set clear goals for the future.
- Many people balance their career ambitions with family responsibilities.
- Her career took off when she joined a well-known marketing firm after graduation.
Synonyms with Short Explanation:
- Occupation – A person’s usual work or profession, typically in the broader sense of a job or field of employment.
- Profession – A type of occupation that requires specialized education, training, or expertise.
- Vocation – A strong feeling of suitability for a particular career or occupation, often with a sense of purpose or calling.
- Trade – A skilled occupation, often one that involves manual work, requiring specific skills and training.
- Employment – The state of being employed, or the work a person is engaged in for compensation.
Related Words with Short Explanation:
- Job – A paid position of regular employment, which may or may not be part of a long-term career.
- Work – The tasks or duties someone performs, typically in exchange for compensation.
- Internship – A temporary position that provides practical experience in a particular field, often as a step toward a full career.
- Career Development – The process of improving skills, gaining experience, and advancing in one’s chosen career path.
- Professional – A person engaged in a specific profession, often requiring specialized education or qualifications.
Antonyms:
- Unemployment – The state of not having a job or career.
- Amateur – A person who engages in an activity or pursuit without professional training or qualifications.
- Hobby – An activity done for enjoyment or relaxation rather than as a job or career.
- Retirement – The period of life after leaving one’s career or job, often due to age or personal choice.
- Dabbler – Someone who engages in an activity in a superficial or non-serious way, not committed to a long-term career.