vocation
voh-KAY-shun
/voʊˈkeɪʃən/
A strong feeling of suitability for a particular career or occupation; a person's employment or main occupation, especially regarded as particularly worthy and requiring great dedication.
Unlike a 'job' which might just be for money, a vocation implies a deep, almost spiritual calling or a sense of purpose.
The story behind the word. In the Middle Ages, a 'vocation' was strictly a divine call to religious life. Over centuries, the meaning broadened to include any career that a person feels destined for, though it still carries a hint of that original, sacred dedication.
Word relationships
- calling: Calling is more informal and emphasizes the internal urge, while vocation can also refer to the trade itself.
- mission: Mission implies a specific goal or task to be achieved, often for a cause.
- hobby: A hobby is done for pleasure in one's spare time, not as a primary life path.
Commonly confused with
- vacation: A vacation is a holiday; a vocation is a life's work.
Word family
- vocational (adjective): Relating to an occupation or employment.
- vocations (noun): Plural form of vocation.
Collocations
- follow a vocation
- sense of vocation
- vocation for teaching
Example sentences
- "He had no vocation for the priesthood." Literary context regarding personal calling.
- "For many, teaching is not just a job but a vocation that requires immense patience." Discussing career satisfaction.
Memory hook
Think of 'Voice'—a vocation is the career that your inner voice is calling you to do. Vocation = Your inner Voice calling.
When not to use
Avoid using it for casual, temporary work like 'my vocation at the burger joint' unless you are being ironic.
Fun facts
- The word 'vocal' and 'vocation' share the same Latin root 'vocare'.
- In some countries, 'vocational schools' are specifically for learning practical trades.
Related words
Also appears in
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