ENGLISH VOCABULARY GUIDE

Job vs Work: Countable Noun, Activity and Career Use

A job is a particular paid position or defined task. Work is the broader activity of doing a job and is usually uncountable when it means employment.

Clear Explanation

• A job can be counted: one job, two jobs.

• Work is normally uncountable for general labor or employment.

• Work also functions as a verb.

• Use find a job but finish the work.

• Common phrases include job interview, hard work, and work experience.

Examples

She applied for a new job.
I have a lot of work this morning.
They work from home twice a week.

Quick Comparison

Common Mistake

Avoid many works when you mean many tasks; use a lot of work or many jobs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can work be plural?

Works has specialized meanings, but not normally general employment.

Do we say go to work?

Yes. It is the usual expression.

Can job mean a task?

Yes, such as a repair job or printing job.

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