Working hours Meaning: Definition and Examples

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working hours

[ˈwər-kiŋ ˈaʊərz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

job

The amount of time someone spends at their job during a day, week, or month.

Synonyms

business hours, office hours, work hours.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
working hours	Duplicate entry, see above.
office hours	Typically refers to the specific hours during which an office is open or a professional, like a professor or doctor, is available for appointments. The professor's office hours are from 2 PM to 4 PM on Wednesdays Please visit the office during office hours for administrative help
business hours	Specifically denotes the time during which a business is open to the public, usually in customer service contexts. Our store's business hours are from 10 AM to 8 PM You can call us anytime during business hours for assistance
work hours	Similar to 'working hours,' but often used more casually or informally to refer to the time someone spends working. I need to log my work hours for the project Make sure you track your work hours to get paid accurately

Examples of usage

He works long hours to support his family.
Our working hours are from 9 am to 5 pm.
I need to check my working hours for this week.
She is on a part-time contract with flexible working hours.
Please fill in your working hours on the timesheet.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

legal

The specific times during the day when employees are required to be present at their workplace.

Synonyms

office hours, shift hours, work hours.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
working hours	General term referring to the time period during which a person is expected to work. My working hours are from 9 AM to 5 PM She had to adjust her working hours to match the new project's schedule
office hours	Usually used to indicate the time when an office is open for business or when a professional, like a professor, is available to meet. You can meet her during her office hours, which are from 2 PM to 4 PM The doctor's office hours are posted on the door
shift hours	Specifically refers to the hours assigned to a worker for a particular shift, commonly used in workplaces that operate in shifts like hospitals, factories, or retail. She works the night shift hours from 10 PM to 6 AM His shift hours change every week
work hours	Similar to 'working hours', but often used more informally to denote the specific hours someone spends at work. My work hours are long this week because of the big project We need to track our work hours for the monthly report

Examples of usage

The company policy states the working hours for all employees.
Employees are expected to adhere to the working hours set by the company.
The working hours are 9 am to 6 pm with a one-hour lunch break.
Overtime pay is applicable for work beyond the normal working hours.
The working hours may vary depending on the shift schedule.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

In the late 19th century, the labor movement started advocating for an eight-hour workday, leading to standard working hours in many countries.
The concept of weekdays as working days developed over time, influenced by religious customs and agricultural practices.

Cultural Perspectives

Different countries have varying standards for working hours, with some nations embracing a shorter workweek, like France with its 35-hour model.
In Japan, a culture of long working hours, known as 'karoshi,' translates to death from overwork, highlighting the impact of working hours on health.

Economics

Working hours are crucial in determining labor supply and productivity, impacting both businesses and economies on a macro scale.
Flexible working hours are increasingly popular, allowing employees to balance work-life commitments and enhance overall well-being.

Psychology

Research shows that overly long working hours can lead to burnout, stress, and decreased job satisfaction, affecting mental health.
The concept of 'work-life balance' emphasizes the importance of managing working hours to maintain overall happiness and quality of life.

Technology Impact

Advancements in technology have allowed for remote working, leading to shifts in traditional concepts of working hours.
Digital tools and communication platforms enable employees to work from anywhere, resulting in more flexible working hours.

Origin of 'working hours'

The concept of working hours has evolved over time, influenced by industrialization, labor movements, and government regulations. In the early days of industrialization, workers often faced long and grueling hours with little to no breaks. As labor movements gained traction, there were efforts to establish standard working hours and regulations to protect workers' rights. Today, working hours are typically regulated by labor laws and company policies to ensure a balance between work and personal life.