Coworker: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is commonly used in North America to refer to someone you work with, regardless of hierarchy or relationship. It carries a neutral tone.

• She is my coworker at the marketing department.
• I have dinner with my coworkers every Friday.

This word is widely used in British English and in professional, academic, or corporate environments to refer to people with whom you work. It often suggests a respectful professional relationship.

• She is a respected colleague in our law firm.
• My colleagues supported my decision.

This term is often used in a more formal business setting. It can imply a professional relationship, sometimes on a more equal or partnership level.

• He is my business associate.
• We need an associate for the new project.

This term is less common and somewhat informal, mainly used to emphasize camaraderie or shared work experience. It can sometimes sound old-fashioned.

• We need to help our fellow workers.
• He is a trusted fellow worker in the factory.

Refers to someone who works alongside you, typically within the same company or organization. This term is neutral and commonly used in professional settings.

• My coworker helped me finish the project before the deadline.
• We have a meeting with our coworkers to discuss the new policy.

Indicates a person or organization that you are in a formal or informal partnership with, often implying an equal stake in a venture or project. The term can be used in business, personal, or romantic contexts.

• She is my business partner, and we manage the company together.
• Our partners in this venture have contributed significantly to its success.

Refers to someone you work jointly with on a particular project or task. This term emphasizes mutual participation and contribution. It is often used in creative, academic, or research contexts.

• Our collaborator from the university provided valuable insights into our study.
• He is a trusted collaborator on many of our design projects.

Used for someone who provides support to a superior, performing tasks that are often administrative in nature. It often implies a hierarchical relationship.

• My assistant scheduled all my appointments for the week.
• I asked my assistant to prepare the report for the meeting.