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Labor force Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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labor force

[หˆleษชbษ™r fษ”หrs ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

economics

The labor force refers to the total number of people who are currently employed or actively seeking employment in a country or region. It includes both employed and unemployed individuals who are of working age and are willing and able to work.

Synonyms

work population, workforce, working people.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
labor force

Used in formal and economic contexts to describe the segment of the population that is employed or actively seeking employment.

  • The government released a report on the current state of the labor force.
  • The labor force participation rate has increased over the past year.
workforce

Commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to refer to the group of people engaged in or available for work, especially within specific industries or companies.

  • The company plans to expand its workforce by hiring 200 more employees.
  • Diversity in the workforce leads to more innovative solutions.
work population

A more general term that can be used interchangeably with 'labor force' but is less common. It implies the total number of people who work in a given area or industry.

  • The work population in the region has seen a significant decline due to economic downturn.
  • Investments in education have increased the skills of the work population.
working people

Informal and colloquial term that refers to individuals who are currently employed. It is often used to emphasize the human aspect rather than statistical or economic perspectives.

  • The new policy aims to protect the rights of working people.
  • Working people are struggling with the rising cost of healthcare.

Examples of usage

  • The labor force participation rate measures the percentage of the population that is in the labor force.
  • Technological advancements have significantly impacted the composition of the labor force.
  • Governments often use policies to encourage labor force participation and reduce unemployment rates.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Economic Importance

  • A strong labor force is crucial for national economic growth, driving production and innovation.
  • The labor force participation rate helps gauge how many eligible people are working or actively searching for jobs.
  • Different sectors rely on various skill levels within the labor force, from low-skilled jobs to high-tech professions.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In many cultures, the labor force is deeply tied to societal values, emphasizing work ethics and contributions.
  • Different countries have varied labor force policies, reflecting cultural attitudes towards work, rights, and benefits.
  • Globalization has led to a blend of labor forces, where workers from different backgrounds collaborate in diverse settings.

Historical Context

  • During the Industrial Revolution, the labor force expanded significantly as people moved to cities to work in factories.
  • Post-World War II saw a dramatic shift with women joining the labor force in large numbers, changing social dynamics.
  • In recent history, technology and automation have reshaped the labor force, affecting job availability and required skills.

Origin of 'labor force'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'labor' comes from the Latin 'laborare', meaning 'to work or toil'.
  • It relates to the Old French word 'labeor', which also means work, showing how languages evolve.
  • The term 'force' in this context highlights the collective strength of individuals contributing to the economy.

The concept of the labor force dates back to the industrial revolution when the need for workers in factories and industries increased dramatically. As economies evolved, the labor force became a critical component of economic growth and development. Today, the labor force plays a crucial role in shaping the workforce dynamics of nations around the world.