Careers: meaning, definitions and examples

Similar to the first 'careers,' it also refers to the long-term progression in a job field, though it might be useful to clarify any differences that arise in context.

• His career has taken many turns over the years.
• She decided to change her career after ten years in finance.

Refers to a paid occupation, especially one that requires formal training and qualifications.

• He entered the legal profession after graduating from law school.
• Nursing is a highly respected profession.

Used to talk about a person’s job or the general category of work they are engaged in. It doesn’t necessarily imply long-term growth.

• Her occupation as a teacher keeps her very busy.
• What is your current occupation?

Often used to describe a strong feeling of suitability for a particular career or occupation, sometimes implying a sense of calling or purpose.

• She considers teaching to be her true vocation.
• He has found his vocation in social work.

Use this when referring to the state of having a paid job, often in a legal or formal context. This term can also describe the relationship between an employer and an employee.

• Employment rates have increased this year
• He is seeking employment in the tech industry

Use this in a broad sense to describe any activity involving mental or physical effort done in order to achieve a purpose, including but not limited to paid employment.

• She has a lot of work to do before the deadline
• He goes to work every weekday

Use this when discussing the means by which someone earns money in order to live, often implying a basic or fundamental aspect of survival.

• Fishing is their main livelihood in this village
• The factory's closure threatened the livelihood of many families

Typically refers to movement at a high speed in an uncontrolled or reckless manner. Often used to describe vehicles or people moving chaotically.

• The car careers down the hill, narrowly avoiding pedestrians.
• He careers around the corner, out of sight.