Synonyms for

Unemployment

Verb / ˌʌnɪˈmplɔɪmʌnt / Another word for unemployment — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

The state of being without a job.

Synonyms & similar words

employment joblessness layoff redundancy idle unoccupied downsizing termination dismissal firing sack economy recession hardship

Synonyms by register

Formal

joblessness idleness underemployment

Informal

out of work on the dole between jobs

Literary

disemployment idle hands

Antonyms

employment work occupation labor business livelihood job

Common collocations

  • unemployment rate
  • high unemployment
  • unemployment benefits
  • unemployment insurance
  • unemployment figures
  • rising unemployment
  • youth unemployment

Word family

noun unemployment
verb unemploy
adjective unemployed

Usage note

Unemployment refers to the state of being without a paid job. It is often discussed in terms of rates and benefits.

Example sentences

  1. The unemployment rate in the country is at an all-time high.
  2. He was struggling with unemployment after losing his job due to the pandemic.
  3. Unemployment benefits helped her get by while she looked for a new job.
  4. The company announced a round of layoffs due to financial difficulties.
  5. She felt a sense of job loss after being let go from her position.

Quotes

  • Unemployment is capitalism's way of getting you to plant a garden.
  • Unemployment is sky-high; deflation is knocking at the door.
  • Unemployment is a great tragedy. The family that loses its breadwinner is cast into poverty.

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