workplace

Meanings

1. 1nouncountable

   The place where someone does their job, such as an office, factory, or shop.

   Grammar: Countable: you can say a workplace, the workplace, or workplaces. Often used with the definite article when talking about work in general.

   Patterns

   • at the workplace
   • in the workplace
   • a safe workplace
   • the workplace environment

   The company tries to make the workplace comfortable for everyone.

   Safety rules are important in any workplace.

   She left her laptop at the workplace overnight.

2. 2nounsingular

   The general environment or culture of paid work, especially when discussing issues like equality and behavior.

   Grammar: Used with 'the' to talk about work as a social setting: the workplace is changing.

   Patterns

   • in the workplace
   • the modern workplace
   • discrimination in the workplace

   New laws aim to reduce harassment in the workplace.

   The workplace has become more flexible since the pandemic.

   Technology is changing the workplace rapidly.

Word forms

Common combinations

workplace safety

Workplace safety training is required for all new employees.

workplace culture

A positive workplace culture can improve productivity.

in the workplace

She has years of experience in the workplace.

workplace environment

A quiet workplace environment helps me concentrate.

workplace bullying

The company has a strict policy against workplace bullying.

Synonyms and how they differ

office

Usually a room or building where people do desk work; workplace is wider and includes factories, shops, etc.

work

Refers to the activity or job itself, not the physical place; you go to work, but you might say 'at the workplace' for the location.

job site

Often used for construction or outdoor work locations; workplace is more general and formal.

Word family

worker noun

A person who works, especially in a particular job or industry.

work noun

Activity done to achieve a purpose, often for money.

workplace adjective

Used before a noun to describe things related to the workplace, e.g., workplace safety.

Commonly confused: workplace or work force?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “workplace”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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