Earnings

Part of Speech

Noun (Plural)

Pronunciation

IPA: /ˈɜrnɪŋz/

Phonetic: ur-ningz

Definitions

1. Money obtained in return for labor or services.
2. Profits made by a company or business.
3. Income generated from investments or assets.

Usage Examples

• Her monthly earnings increased after the promotion.
• The company's annual earnings exceeded expectations.
• His investment earnings grew significantly over the years.

Etymology

Derived from Old English "earnian," meaning to gain or deserve through labor or merit.

Synonyms

• Income
• Revenue
• Wages
• Profit
• Salary

Antonyms

• Loss
• Debt
• Expenditure

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In American English, the "r" sound in earnings is more pronounced, while in British English, the "r" is softer with a longer vowel sound.

Historical Usage

Historically, earnings referred primarily to wages or compensation for labor, but its usage expanded to include business profits and investment income in the 19th century.

Cultural Nuances

In Western societies, earnings are often associated with personal achievement and career success, whereas in collectivist cultures, they may be seen as contributions to family or community well-being.

More Information

Earnings represent an essential indicator of financial health for individuals, businesses, and economies. Personal earnings are often used to measure living standards, while corporate earnings influence stock prices and investment decisions.

In financial markets, company earnings are reported quarterly and serve as a critical metric for investors. High earnings can signal profitability and growth, while declining earnings may indicate financial trouble. The analysis of earnings trends helps in understanding economic performance and forecasting future developments.