B1adjective2K

Unemployed

UK /["/ˌʌnɪmˈplɔɪd/"]/US /["/ˌʌnɪmˈplɔɪd/"]/

Definition

without a job although able to work

In simple words: Not having a job.

Examples

  • After losing his job, he became unemployed and struggled to find work.
  • Being unemployed can be a challenging experience for many individuals.
  • The report showed that the number of unemployed people in the city is rising.
  • She decided to pursue further education while she was unemployed.
  • Unemployed individuals often seek out job training programs to improve their skills.

Usage notes

Use 'unemployed' to describe someone without a job, typically in formal or neutral contexts. Avoid using it in casual conversations unless appropriate.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'un' as 'not' and 'employed' as 'having a job' — together they mean 'not having a job'.

Collocations

  • be
  • be counted as
  • be registered (as)
  • currently
  • newly
  • still

Synonyms

  • jobless

Antonyms

  • employed
  • hired

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'employed' vs 'unemployed'
  • Using it to describe a temporary situation (e.g., 'I was unemployed for a day').
  • Omitting the context when discussing (e.g., saying 'he is unemployed' without clarification).