Interviewee

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˌɪn.təˈvjuːˈiː/

Definitions

• A person who is being interviewed, typically for a job, research, or media purposes.
• A candidate or individual participating in an interview process.

Usage Examples

• "The interviewee answered all the questions with great clarity and confidence."
• "As an interviewee, it’s important to be prepared and articulate during the interview."
• "The interviewee was selected after a thorough evaluation of their qualifications."

Etymology

The word "interviewee" is derived from the combination of "interview," originating from the Middle French "entrevue" (meaning a meeting or conversation), and the suffix "-ee," which is used to indicate a person who receives an action. The term emerged in the early 20th century with the rise of formalized interviews, particularly in the employment sector, to refer to the person who is questioned or examined during the interview process.

Synonyms

• Candidate
• Applicant
• Respondent
• Participant
• Job-seeker

Antonyms

• Interviewer
• Assessor
• Evaluator

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In British English, it is often pronounced with a slightly softer "v" sound: "in-ter-VYOO-ee."
• In American English, the pronunciation tends to emphasize the first syllable more: "IN-ter-vyoo-ee."
• In Spanish-speaking regions, the pronunciation follows standard Spanish phonetic rules with a clear emphasis on the second syllable.

Historical Usage

The term "interviewee" gained significance in the early 20th century with the growth of job interviews as a formalized part of the hiring process. With the rise of the corporate and academic sectors, the interview became a standardized practice, leading to the common usage of "interviewee" to identify the individual undergoing questioning. Over time, the term extended beyond employment to include media, academic, and research interviews.

Cultural Nuances

The concept of the interviewee is shaped by cultural attitudes toward authority, professionalism, and self-presentation. In some cultures, interviews are more formal, with the interviewee expected to show deference and respect, while in others, the process may be more conversational or collaborative. The cultural context can affect how an interviewee prepares for and responds to questions, as well as the expectations surrounding the interview process itself.

More Information

The role of the interviewee is critical in a wide range of contexts, from job interviews to media appearances. The interviewee is responsible for providing information, answering questions, and engaging in a dialogue with the interviewer. The effectiveness of an interviewee can depend on preparation, communication skills, and the ability to adapt to different interviewing styles. Whether in a professional or casual setting, being an interviewee requires a balance of confidence, clarity, and responsiveness to succeed in the interview process.