Think about how pay for work is calculated.
The idea
A salary is usually a fixed yearly amount, often paid monthly. A wage is often calculated by the hour or day.
| Word | Typical calculation |
|---|---|
| salary | fixed annual amount |
| wage | per hour or day |
Examples
- Her salary is paid every month.
- The contract states an annual salary.
- His salary stayed the same this year.
- The café pays an hourly wage.
- Their weekly wages depend on their hours.
- The workers asked for higher wages.
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Watch out
A salary can be paid monthly even though its amount is stated per year. Both terms describe pay for work.
Try it yourself
Choose the correct word. The contract promises a fixed annual ___. (salary / wage)
Show answer or example answer
salary
salary: the contract gives a fixed yearly amount.
Choose the correct word. The shop pays an hourly ___. (salary / wage)
Show answer or example answer
wage
wage: the amount is calculated per hour.
Choose the correct word. The workers asked for higher ___. (salary / wages)
Show answer or example answer
wages
wages: the plural describes the workers’ pay.
Practice round
Answer questions and rebuild English sentences to practise. Your score is shown.
Choose the correct word. The contract promises a fixed annual ___. (salary / wage)
Choose the correct word. The shop pays an hourly ___. (salary / wage)
Choose the correct word. The workers asked for higher ___. (salary / wages)
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
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Describe a fixed annual salary and an hourly wage.