income
IN-kum
/ˈɪnkʌm/
Money received, especially on a regular basis, for work or through investments.
Can refer to personal earnings, business revenue, or returns from assets.
The story behind the word. The word 'income' is quite straightforward, coming from the Old English 'incumen,' meaning 'a coming in.' It literally describes money 'coming in' to one's possession. This simple origin perfectly captures the essence of money flowing towards you.
Word relationships
- earnings: Often refers specifically to money earned from labor or services.
- revenue: Typically used in a business context for total money generated before expenses.
- expense: Money spent, the direct opposite of money received.
- outgo: Money paid out or spent (less common than expense).
Commonly confused with
- profit: 'Income' is the total money received; 'profit' is income minus expenses.
Word family
- incoming (adjective): Arriving or coming in.
Collocations
- disposable income
- gross income
- net income
- regular income
- passive income
- earn income
Example sentences
- "After getting a raise, her monthly income increased significantly, allowing her to save more." Discussing personal earnings.
- "The average household income in the region has seen a steady rise over the past decade." Government statistics.
- "Many retirees rely on investment income to supplement their pensions." Investment returns.
Memory hook
It's the money that 'comes in' to your bank account. Money comes in
When not to use
Do not use 'income' to refer to a one-time gift or a loan, as it implies regular or earned money.
Fun facts
- The concept of 'disposable income' is crucial in economics, representing the money left after taxes and other mandatory charges, available for spending and saving.
Related words
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