B2noun2K

Income

UK /["/ˈɪnkʌm//ˈɪnkəm/"]/US /["/ˈɪnkʌm//ˈɪnkəm/"]/

Definition

the money that a person, a region, a country, etc. earns from work, from investing money, from business, etc.

In simple words: The money a person earns or receives regularly.

Examples

  • Her annual income has increased significantly this year.
  • The company reported a rise in income due to increased sales.
  • It's important to diversify your sources of income for financial stability.
  • Many people rely on a fixed income after retirement.
  • The government will raise the tax rate on higher income brackets.

Usage notes

Used in both formal and informal contexts. Common in financial discussions, business, or personal budgeting. Avoid in casual conversations unless related to finances.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of it as 'in-come' — money coming into your pocket.

Collocations

  • high
  • large
  • six-figure
  • have
  • receive
  • earn
  • arise (from something)
  • come from something
  • derive from something
  • bracket
  • group
  • level
  • on an income
  • income from
  • the distribution of income
  • the redistribution of income
  • a drop in income

Synonyms

  • earnings
  • revenue
  • wages
  • salary
  • profits

Antonyms

  • expense
  • outlay

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'outcome' - 'outcome' refers to results, while 'income' is about money earned.
  • Using as a verb - 'income' is a noun only.
  • Mispronouncing it as 'in-come' instead of 'in-kum'.