Cool MateSalary vs Wages
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
| Salary | Wages | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | The money a person earns from their job. | Money earned for work. |
| CEFR level | A2 | - |
| Part of speech | noun | |
| Usage notes | Used in business and employment contexts. It's appropriate in formal discussions about income but can be used informally when talking about pay. Avoid using in casual conversations without context. | Use 'wages' for regular payments to workers, often hourly. Avoid using in very formal contexts; use 'salary' instead. |
Frequently asked questions: Salary vs Wages
What's the difference between "Salary" and "Wages"?
"Salary" means: The money a person earns from their job. "Wages" means: Money earned for work.
When should I use "Salary" and "Wages"?
They can all be used in everyday English.