Workless individual: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically a formal or technical term used to describe someone who does not have work. It’s often used in reports or official documents.

• The government has introduced new policies aimed at supporting workless individuals.
• Statistics show an increase in the number of workless individuals in the region.

A widely accepted and neutral term for someone who does not have a job, often used in both formal and informal contexts. It may refer to someone who is actively seeking work.

• It's challenging being an unemployed person in today's job market.
• The unemployment rate measures the percentage of unemployed persons in the workforce.

Commonly used in everyday conversations and journalism to describe someone who currently does not have a job. It tends to be less formal than 'unemployed person'.

• The number of jobless individuals has increased due to the pandemic.
• Support programs for jobless individuals are a priority for the local government.

Generally used to describe someone who is not working at the moment but could be due to reasons like temporary layoffs or lack of tasks. It can sometimes carry a slightly negative connotation implying inactivity.

• The factory had several idle workers during the economic downturn.
• Management needs to find ways to engage idle workers more effectively.