Colleague: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is commonly used in professional or formal settings, referring to someone you work with, especially in a similar role or position. It often implies respect for the person's professional abilities.

• I have a meeting with my colleagues this afternoon.
• She is a well-respected colleague in our department.

This word is more casual and commonly used in day-to-day conversation to refer to someone you work with. It doesn't necessarily imply a close working relationship and can be used in various job settings.

• I grabbed lunch with a coworker today.
• My coworker and I are working on the same project.

Associate is typically used in business or academic environments to denote a working relationship, often at a more formal or slightly hierarchical level. It can also refer to someone you collaborate with on a project or a partner in a business.

• He is a business associate who handles our international deals.
• As a new associate, she is still learning the ropes.

This phrase is less commonly used but implies a sense of camaraderie and shared experience among people who work together, often in the same level or role. It may sound slightly more formal or old-fashioned.

• The award was given to a fellow worker who has been here for 20 years.
• He is my fellow worker in the engineering department.