colleague
KAH-leeg
/ˈkɒliːɡ/
A person with whom one works in a profession or business.
Emphasizes a professional relationship, often implying shared status or duties, distinct from a casual 'co-worker' which can be broader.
The story behind the word. The word 'colleague' comes from the Latin 'collega,' meaning 'partner in office.' It's a combination of 'com-' (meaning 'together' or 'with') and 'legere' (meaning 'to choose' or 'to gather'). So, a colleague is literally someone 'chosen together' or 'gathered with' for a shared purpose, often in a professional capacity. It entered English in the 16th century.
Word relationships
- associate: Often implies a slightly more formal or business-oriented connection, or someone in a similar but not identical role.
- peer: Emphasizes equal standing or rank within a profession or group.
- co-worker: A more general term for anyone you work with, regardless of professional status or field.
- subordinate: Someone of lower rank or position.
- superior: Someone of higher rank or position.
Commonly confused with
- friend: A 'colleague' is a professional acquaintance; a 'friend' implies a deeper personal relationship, though colleagues can become friends.
Word family
- collegial (adjective): Relating to or characterized by a friendly and cooperative relationship between colleagues.
- collegiality (noun): The cooperative relationship between colleagues.
Collocations
- trusted colleague
- former colleague
- senior colleague
- valued colleague
- work with colleagues
Example sentences
- "My colleague, Sarah, provided invaluable insights that helped us overcome a critical design challenge." During a project meeting, discussing team members.
- "I had the pleasure of meeting several distinguished colleagues from across the industry at the annual summit." Reporting on a professional conference.
Memory hook
Imagine a 'COLLEAGUE' as someone you 'COLLECT' with, working side-by-side. Collect together
When not to use
Avoid using 'colleague' for someone you supervise or who supervises you, unless you want to emphasize a sense of shared professional standing despite the hierarchy. It's generally not used for friends outside of work.
Fun facts
- The word 'college' shares the same Latin root 'collega,' referring to a body of people associated together, often for learning or a specific purpose.
- In some European languages, the equivalent of 'colleague' is used more broadly than in English, sometimes even for fellow students.
Related words
Explore more words
peer, collaborate, subordinate, camaraderie, fellowship, collaboration
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