Tenure
Definitions and Meaning in English
- The period of time that someone holds a particular position, job, or office.
- The conditions or status under which someone holds property, particularly land or real estate, in terms of rights and responsibilities.
- The right or duration of holding a position, especially in academic or professional contexts, where it provides job security.
- A legal term referring to the manner in which land or property is held or possessed, particularly in relation to ownership or leasehold.
History and Origin
The word “tenure” comes from the Latin tenere, meaning “to hold” or “to keep.” It entered English in the late Middle Ages, initially describing the conditions under which land was held or possessed. In feudal times, tenure referred to the system by which land was granted by a lord to a vassal in exchange for services or rent. Over time, its usage broadened to include employment and property rights. The modern meaning of tenure, particularly in academic and professional contexts, evolved in the 19th century, referring to the permanence of one’s position and the job security it entails.
Detailed Explanation
“Tenure” refers to the conditions and duration of holding a position or property. In terms of employment, tenure often denotes the length of time someone has held a specific job or role. In academic contexts, tenure is a status granted to professors after a probationary period, providing job security and protection from arbitrary dismissal. Tenure also applies to real estate, where it indicates the legal ownership or rental rights of property, specifying whether it is owned outright or leased under specific terms. The concept of tenure is crucial in many fields, as it implies a degree of stability and permanence, whether in terms of career or property rights.
Example Sentences
- After several years of service, she earned tenure at the university.
- The professor’s tenure allowed him to focus on his research without the fear of losing his job.
- He held the tenure of the property for over 20 years, maintaining the land according to the terms of the lease.
- The company offered him a promotion with a permanent tenure in the management role.
- The tenure of her position was extended after a successful performance review.
- During his tenure as CEO, the company saw significant growth.
- The lawyer reviewed the terms of the property tenure before advising the client.
- The new hire will undergo a probationary period before being granted tenure.
- His tenure in the role has been marked by consistent achievements and strong leadership.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Term – A fixed period of time during which someone holds a position, similar to tenure in employment contexts.
- Duration – The length of time something lasts, often used to describe the time period of holding a position or property.
- Service – The time spent in a role or position, often used in relation to employment tenure.
- Occupation – The act of holding or possessing a job, often used in contexts where tenure indicates the holding of a specific role.
- Period – A length of time, especially when referring to the duration of employment or property ownership.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Employment – The condition of having a job, often linked to tenure when discussing job security.
- Position – A specific job or role within an organization, often held for a certain tenure.
- Job Security – The assurance of continued employment, often linked to the concept of tenure in academic or permanent positions.
- Leasehold – A legal term related to tenure, specifically describing the condition under which property is held or rented.
- Ownership – The legal right to possess property, often related to the tenure of land or assets.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Contract – A formal agreement that can specify the terms and duration of tenure, especially in employment or property contexts.
- Probation – A trial period during which someone’s tenure in a job or role is evaluated, often leading to permanent tenure if successful.
- Stability – The condition of being secure or unchanging, often a result of tenure in a position or property.
- Reappointment – The act of renewing someone’s tenure in a position, often after a specified term.
- Confirmation – The formal approval of someone’s tenure, especially in academic or professional roles.
Antonyms
- Dismissal
- Termination
- Instability
- Temporary
- Resignation