Telecommute Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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telecommute
[หtษlษชหkษmjสt ]
Definition
work from home
To telecommute means to work from a remote location, typically from home, instead of commuting to a traditional office environment. This practice often utilizes digital communication tools such as email, video conferencing, and collaboration software to maintain productivity and connect with coworkers. Telecommuting can enhance work-life balance and reduce commuting time, which can be beneficial for both employees and employers. It has grown in popularity, especially in recent years, due to advancements in technology and shifts in workplace culture.
Synonyms
remote work, virtual work, work from home.
Examples of usage
- She prefers to telecommute to save on travel time.
- Many companies now offer telecommuting options for their staff.
- Due to the pandemic, he started to telecommute full-time.
- Some employees thrive when they can telecommute regularly.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Technology
- Advancements in the internet and communication tools, like video conferencing, have greatly enhanced the ability to telecommute.
- Cloud-based services allow employees to access their work files from anywhere, making remote work more efficient.
Work Culture
- Before the pandemic, telecommuting was a growing trend, primarily among tech and creative industries.
- Many companies adopted telecommuting policies after realizing increased productivity and employee satisfaction.
Psychology
- Studies show that working from home can lead to better work-life balance, but it may also cause feelings of isolation.
- Flexibility in work hours has been linked to improved mental health among telecommuters.
Economics
- Telecommuting can save employees money on commuting costs, such as gas, public transport, and work attire.
- Companies benefit from reduced overhead costs, as they may require less office space.
Origin of 'telecommute'
Main points about word origin
- The term combines 'tele,' from the Greek for 'distant,' and 'commute,' which originally referred to traveling to work.
- It first appeared in the late 20th century, as technology made remote work more feasible.
The term 'telecommute' is derived from two words: 'tele-', which comes from the Greek word 'tฤle', meaning 'distant' or 'far off', and 'commute', which originates from the Latin word 'commutare', meaning 'to change, interchange, exchange'. The word began to gain traction in the late 20th century, particularly in the 1970s and 1980s, when advancements in computing and telecommunications made it more feasible for individuals to work outside a centralized office. This shift was initially popular among industries like information technology and telecommunications, allowing employees to maintain productivity despite geographical distances. Over time, as internet connectivity and digital collaboration tools improved, telecommuting expanded across diverse sectors, becoming an important aspect of modern work life. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly accelerated this trend, leading to a widespread acceptance of telecommuting arrangements as companies adapted to ensure the health and safety of their employees.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #40,494, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.