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Wages

UK //ˈweɪdʒɪz// US //ˈweɪdʒɪz// Pronunciation

Definition

The fixed regular payment earned for work, usually calculated on an hourly, daily, or weekly basis.

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In simple words: Money earned for work.

Examples

• The minimum wages in the country are set by the government.
• Many workers are asking for higher wages to match rising living costs.
• He received his wages at the end of each week.
• Wages can vary greatly depending on the industry and location.
• The company promised to increase wages if productivity improved.

Usage notes

Use 'wages' for regular payments to workers, often hourly. Avoid using in very formal contexts; use 'salary' instead.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'wages' as 'Wages Are Gained Every Shift' to remember it's money for work.

Collocations

• minimum wages
• increase wages
• weekly wages
• hourly wages
• living wages

Synonyms

• pay
• earnings
• compensation
• remuneration
• salary

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'salary', which usually refers to fixed annual pay.
• Using 'wages' for one-time payments, which is incorrect.