LANGUAGE WIZARD

People are often puzzled as to how to distinguish between ‘posao’ and ‘zanimanje’ in English. The easiest way is to refer to everything as ‘job’. But English has much more to offer.

A job (countable noun) is a regular activity you perform in exchange for payment, especially when you work for a company or public organisation. For example: ‘A friend of mine told me his last job was with a computer firm and his current job is in advertising. But, he would like a job in TV. Are there any jobs (not work or works) in TV? He might apply for a job there. It might be hard to get a job (or land a job) there or even hold down a job (keep a job) because of so much competition.’

Work (uncountable noun) is used in a more general way to talk about activities you do to earn money, either working for a company or as a self-employed individual. For example: ‘This friend of mine started work when he was 18. More people are in work (have a job) in Croatia today than 10 years ago. However, lots of people are still out of work (without a job). They are looking for work, but they have difficulties finding work. Another friend of mine is returning to work after being on maternity leave for a year.’ It is worth remembering that when asking someone about their job, you should ask ‘What do you do (for a living)?’ Also, be aware that when you are busy you have a lot of work to do, not a lot of job.

Post and position (countable nouns) are more formal words for a job in a company or organisation, used especially in job adverts and when you are talking about someone moving to a different job. For example: ‘This post would suit a recent graduate. They need to fill a post, because Mr Smith resigned (from) his $50,000 a year post in July. He has left for a teaching position (or post) in Germany. He will take up (start) his new position in October.’

Job takes an indefinite article (a), so you apply for a job, get a job, lose a job. Work is uncountable and takes no articles; you look for work, start work, return to work. A job can be temporary or permanent, part-time or full-time.

In this form you need to complete personal details such as your age, address and job/occupation/work. Would you like to apply for a job/post/profession here? He resigned from his job/post/occupation in April. She has held the occupation/post/position of Chief Financial Officer since 1992. The council is making every effort to fill all the available posts/professions/vacancies. It might be difficult to hold down a job/work/post, due to strong competition. What’s your job/What do you do/What do you do for a living? She will take up her post/position/work in October.

All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. It means that without time off from work, a person becomes bored and boring.