Overtime Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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overtime

[ˈoʊvərˌtaɪm ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

work

time worked in addition to regular working hours

Synonyms

additional hours, extra hours, extra time.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
overtime	Typically used in formal work environments to describe hours worked beyond the standard workweek. It often implies extra compensation. She earned extra money by working overtime last week. The company has a policy of paying double for overtime hours.
extra hours	Similar to 'additional hours,' this phrase is less formal and commonly used in everyday conversation. It might or might not imply extra pay. I'm putting in extra hours this week to finish my tasks. Could you work a few extra hours to help out with the event?
extra time	Often used in non-work-related contexts, or to describe more general situations where additional time is needed or given. We were given extra time to complete the test. Do you think you could spare some extra time to help me with this?
additional hours	Used to describe extra hours worked beyond the usual schedule, generally in a more neutral tone. It doesn't necessarily imply extra pay. We might need to put in some additional hours to complete the project on time. He was asked to work additional hours during the busy season.

Examples of usage

He is paid extra for working overtime on weekends.
The project deadline was extended due to the need for overtime work.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

sports

additional time added to a game when the score is tied at the end of regular time

Synonyms

extended play, extra time, sudden death.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
overtime	Used in sports to describe additional time played after a game ends in a tie, commonly in basketball and American football. The game went into overtime after a last-minute equalizer. Overtime periods can be thrilling for spectators.
extra time	Another term for additional playing time in sports, often used in football (soccer). The game was decided in extra time after a goalless draw. Fans were on the edge of their seats during extra time.
sudden death	A decisive form of extra time in sports where the first team to score wins the game; often implies high stakes and tension. The championship was decided by sudden death after another goalless draw. In sudden death, every moment is critical as one mistake can end the game.
extended play	Refers to additional playing time in sports, usually in games like football and basketball, to break a tie. The match went into extended play after it ended in a draw. Extended play can be exhausting for the athletes.

Examples of usage

The match went into overtime before the winning goal was scored.
The team scored a last-minute goal to force the game into overtime.

^{Context #3 | Adjective}

finance

denoting payment at a higher rate than usual

Synonyms

bonus pay, extra pay, premium pay.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
overtime	Use when referring to the additional hours worked beyond the standard work schedule. It usually implies working longer hours than usual. I had to work overtime this week to finish the project. He was paid extra for all the overtime he did last month.
extra pay	A more general term for any additional earnings that are beyond someone's regular wage or salary. This can include both overtime and bonus pay. He received extra pay for working on a public holiday. Employees get extra pay for attending weekend training sessions.
bonus pay	Use when referring to additional compensation received beyond the regular salary. This is often given as a reward for achieving specific goals or performance targets. The company gives bonus pay at the end of the year based on performance. She received bonus pay for meeting her sales targets.
premium pay	Specific term used when referring to higher pay rates for working under less desirable conditions, such as nights, weekends, or holidays. Typically used in union contracts and labor agreements. She received premium pay for working the night shift. Employees working on public holidays get premium pay.

Examples of usage

He received an overtime bonus for his exceptional performance.
The company offered overtime pay for employees working during holidays.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The concept was first recorded in the United States during the late 19th century, particularly as labor movements campaigned for better working conditions.
In 1938, the Fair Labor Standards Act established the standard time for overtime laws, highlighting workers' rights to extra pay for longer hours.

Workplace Culture

In many companies, overtime pay is typically calculated at 1.5 times the regular hourly wage, which incentivizes employees to take on extra shifts.
Work cultures can vary significantly; in some countries, long hours are common, while in others, they are discouraged to maintain work-life balance.

Economic Impact

Overtime can boost a worker's income significantly, but excessive reliance on overtime may indicate issues like understaffing or poor time management in a company.
During economic downturns, employers might rely on overtime instead of hiring more staff to cut costs.

Psychological Effects

While some enjoy the extra income from overtime, it can lead to burnout and stress from the additional workload.
Balancing overtime with personal life is essential for mental well-being; neglecting leisure activities can impact overall happiness.

Legal Aspects

Laws regarding overtime can differ greatly between countries, with some places implementing strict regulations on how many hours can be worked.
Employees often need to keep meticulous records of their hours to ensure fair compensation for any overtime worked.

Origin of 'overtime'

The term 'overtime' originated in the mid-19th century, combining 'over' and 'time' to refer to work done beyond regular hours. It has since evolved to encompass extended play in various contexts, such as sports and finance. The concept of overtime reflects the flexibility and compensation associated with additional effort or playtime.