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CV Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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CV

[siːˈviː ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

job application

A CV, or curriculum vitae, is a detailed document listing a person's education, work experience, skills, and achievements. It is typically used when applying for academic, scientific, or research positions.

Synonyms

bio, profile, resume.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
CV

In the context of professional job applications outside of academia, a CV is similar to a resume but generally longer and more detailed.

  • You might want to prepare a CV for that management position; they tend to prefer more detailed information.
  • For the international job market, employers may ask for a CV rather than a resume.
resume

A resume is a concise document typically used for job applications in various industries. It summarizes one's work experience, education, and skills. Resumes are often limited to one or two pages.

  • Submit your resume and cover letter when applying for the position.
  • The career counselor helped me refine my resume to make it more appealing to employers.
bio

A bio is a brief summary of a person's professional background, often used in contexts where a short introduction is needed. This includes websites, social media profiles, conference programs, and speaker introductions.

  • Please send me your bio for the conference pamphlet.
  • His bio on the company website highlights his 20 years of experience in the field.
profile

A profile is often used to describe a summary of someone's skills, experiences, and interests. This can commonly be found on online platforms such as LinkedIn or in a company directory.

  • His LinkedIn profile has an excellent summary of his accomplishments.
  • The company updated its employee profiles to reflect recent promotions.

Examples of usage

  • My CV includes my degrees, research projects, and publications.
  • She attached her CV to the job application.
  • His CV impressed the hiring manager.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

History

  • The concept of a curriculum vitae dates back to the 1480s with Leonardo da Vinci, who submitted a document outlining his skills to potential patrons.
  • In the 20th century, the use of CVs expanded significantly as the job market became more competitive after World War II.

Job Market

  • Employers often spend less than a minute reviewing a CV, highlighting the importance of clear and impactful information.
  • Tailoring a CV to match the job description can significantly improve chances of being invited for an interview.

Cultural Variations

  • In some countries, like the UK, a CV is similar to a resume but typically includes more detailed career history and educational background.
  • In Japan, the structure and formality of a CV can vary greatly, often requiring a handwritten touch as a sign of respect.

Modern Trends

  • Digital CVs are becoming increasingly popular, with many professionals using LinkedIn to create an online presence that can serve as a CV.
  • Video CVs are emerging as a creative way for candidates to stand out, allowing them to showcase personality and presentation skills.

Origin of 'CV'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'curriculum vitae' is Latin for 'course of life,' highlighting its purpose as a summary of one's professional journey.
  • Originally used in academia, the term has evolved to represent comprehensive summaries in a variety of fields.

The term 'CV' is an abbreviation of the Latin phrase 'curriculum vitae', which translates to 'course of life'. It originated in the 19th century and became popular in academic and professional circles as a comprehensive document detailing a person's qualifications and experiences.