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livelihood

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˈlɪvliˌhʊd/

KK: /ˈlɪvlihʊd/

noun
Definition

A way to earn money or support oneself, often through work or a job.


Example

Many people depend on farming as their main livelihood.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you thought about what you want to do for your livelihood?
Sloth B
I'm not entirely sure yet, but I want something fulfilling.
Sloth A
Yeah, it’s important to enjoy what you do for your livelihood.
Sloth B
Absolutely! I think that makes a huge difference in life.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
income
support
occupation
Antonyms
unemployment
idleness
leisure
Root Explanation

Livelihood is formed from "live" (from Old English "libban", meaning to live) and "-hood" (from Old English "hād", meaning state or condition). The word "livelihood" refers to the state or condition of living, particularly in terms of earning a living or sustaining oneself.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'live' which connects to the state of being alive, and '-hood' which indicates a condition. This helps you remember that 'livelihood' is about the condition necessary to sustain life.

Visually Confused Words
likelihood
unlikelihood
lonelihood
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