Wage: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used when referring to earnings received on an hourly, daily, or weekly basis, especially for manual or unskilled work.

• He earns a good hourly wage at the factory.
• They are fighting for better wages and working conditions.

Refers to a fixed, regular payment, typically paid on a monthly or bi-weekly basis for professional or non-manual work. Often associated with annual amounts.

• She has a high salary because she is a lawyer at a big firm.
• They discussed my salary during the job interview.

Broad term for the money received by someone for doing their job. It can be used casually and is not as formal as 'salary'.

• He is happy with the pay at his new job.
• What is the average pay for a teacher in this district?

General term for all types of money earned, either from work, investments, or other sources. It can be used in both personal and business contexts.

• Her annual income includes salary, bonuses, and rental income.
• Tax returns must be filed based on your total income.

Use 'wage' when referring to engaging in a sustained effort or activity, often in the context of conflict, war, or a campaign. It often has a serious or formal tone.

• They decided to wage a campaign against climate change.
• The country is waging a war on terror.

Employ 'conduct' when referring to organizing and managing the execution of a process, activity, or event. It is often used in formal or professional settings.

• The scientists conducted an experiment to test their hypotheses.
• The company will conduct a survey to understand customer satisfaction.

Select 'pursue' when describing the act of following or chasing after a goal, ambition, or a person persistently. It often implies a prolonged effort.

• She decided to pursue a career in medicine.
• The police are pursuing a suspect in the robbery case.

Use 'undertake' when referring to the act of beginning and committing to a task, project, or responsibility. It suggests a sense of obligation or commitment.

• He decided to undertake the renovation of the old house.
• The company will undertake a major restructuring next year.