Career Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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career

[kəˈrɪə ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

job development

A person's progress or general course of action through life or through a distinct phase of life, as in some profession or occupation.

Synonyms

occupation, profession, vocation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
career	Describes a long-term professional journey, usually involving progress in a specific field. Often used in contexts of personal growth and job satisfaction. She has built a successful career in finance. He is considering a career change.
profession	Indicates a job requiring advanced education or training, often standardized by exams or certifications. Used to denote respect and seriousness. Law is a demanding profession. He is highly respected in the teaching profession.
occupation	Refers to any job or role someone undertakes, often used in formal or legal contexts like forms or surveys. Please state your occupation for the records. Her occupation as a nurse is very demanding.
vocation	Signifies a job or way of life that someone feels particularly suited to or called to; often has a religious or service-related connotation. She feels nursing is her true vocation. He pursued his vocation in music despite the challenges.

Examples of usage

Her career as a lawyer spanned over two decades.
He decided to change careers and pursue his passion for photography.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

move swiftly and in an uncontrolled way

To move swiftly and in an uncontrolled way in a specified direction.

Synonyms

dash, hurtle, plunge.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
career	Best used when describing a vehicle or person moving in an uncontrolled, often dangerous way. The car careered off the road and into a tree. She careered down the hill on her bicycle.
hurtle	Describes something or someone moving very fast in a way that seems dangerous or out of control. The meteor hurtled toward the Earth. The skier hurtled down the slope at breakneck speed.
dash	Often used when someone or something moves very quickly with a sense of urgency or purpose. He dashed to catch the last bus. The child dashed across the playground.
plunge	Typically used when someone or something moves suddenly and quickly downward or forward, often into water or a difficult situation. He plunged into the icy river. The stock market plunged unexpectedly.

Examples of usage

The car careered off the road and crashed into a tree.
The ball careered across the field after being kicked.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'career'

The word 'career' originated in the 16th century from the Middle French 'carriere', meaning 'racecourse'. Over time, the meaning evolved to refer to one's progression or course of action in life or in a specific profession. The concept of a career has become increasingly important in modern society as individuals seek meaningful and fulfilling work.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,828, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.

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1825 manager
1826 stream
1827 achieved
1828 career
1829 satisfactory
1830 identity
1831 executive
...