Topic Vocabulary & Exercises

Topic Vocabulary:

apprenticeship (noun [c]):

Definition: A system of training new workers in a trade or profession with on-the-job training.

Example: She decided to apply for an apprenticeship to become an electrician.

demanding (adjective):

Definition: Describes a task, job, or situation that requires a lot of effort, skill, or time.

Example: Working in the healthcare industry can be demanding because of the high pressure.

engaging (adjective):

Definition: A task, job, or situation that is interesting and keeps one's attention.

Example: He was glad to be involved in the project as it was engaging work that he enjoyed.

freelance (adjective):

Definition: Working for different employers on a project basis rather than being employed by only one company.

Example: She chose freelance work as she wanted to be her own boss.

hierarchy (noun [u]):

Definition: A system or structure where people or things are ranked according to their importance or authority.

Example: He became CEO after 30 years of moving up the company hierarchy.

job security (noun phrase):

Definition: How likely you will keep your job in a company in the future.

Example: Job security is important, especially when the economy is not so good.

layoffs (noun [pl]):

Definition: The act of firing employees, often as a result of financial problems or restructuring.

Example: The company announced layoffs due to a decline in sales.

lucrative (adjective):

Definition: Describes a job or business that can earn a lot of money.

Example: Being a successful YouTuber can be very lucrative if you have a lot of viewers and advertisers.

manual work (noun phrase):

Definition: A type of work that involves physical labour rather than intellectual or office work.

Example: The construction industry involves manual work such as carpentry, plumbing, and bricklaying.

monotonous (adjective):

Definition: Repetitive and boring.

Example: Folding clothes at the store can be monotonous because you do the same task over and over again.

prospects (noun [pl]):

Definition: Chances or opportunities for success or promotion in the future.

Example: The company offered good prospects as it had many branches and offices around the world.

rewarding (adjective):

Definition: Providing a feeling of satisfaction because you are doing something worthwhile.

Example: The volunteer work was challenging but very rewarding.

self-employed (adjective):

Definition: Providing services independently, rather than working for someone else.

Example: My neighbour is self-employed; he runs his own small business making custom furniture.

shift work (noun phrase):

Definition: Working in specific time periods or "shifts," which can include evenings, nights, or weekends.

Example: Nurses often do shift work, working during the day one week and at night the next.

take on (phrasal verb):

Definition: To accept and begin doing additional duties or tasks.

Example: She recently took on the role of CEO.

take time off (verb phrase):

Definition: Requesting and receiving permission to be away from work for a certain period.

Example: After a busy month, I decided to take some time off and relax at the beach.

vocational (adjective):

Definition: Referring to education or training that prepares students for a specific career or trade.

Example: The vocational school offered programs in welding, plumbing, and electrical work.

white collar worker (noun phrase):

Definition: Someone who works in a professional or administrative job, typically in an office.

Example: Lawyers, and accountants are examples of white-collar workers.

work-life balance (noun phrase):

Definition: Achieving a healthy balance between your job or career and your personal life.

Example: She tries to maintain a good work-life balance by leaving the office on time every day.

workload (noun [c]):

Definition: The amount of work that a person has to do.

Example: During their final exams, students often have a heavy workload with lots of studying and assignments.