Understanding ‘Bonus’: A Key Word for IELTS Vocabulary
Learn about the word ‘bonus’ for your IELTS exam. This video covers its meaning, usage as a noun and adjective, etymology, synonyms, antonyms, and common usage errors. Improve your English vocabulary with practical examples and tips.
Imagine opening an envelope from your employer and finding an unexpected check inside. That extra money is what we call a bonus, and today we’re going to explore this word to boost your IELTS vocabulary.
Word type: Bonus is primarily used as a noun, though it can sometimes function as an adjective.
Meaning:
A bonus is an extra or additional payment, gift, or benefit beyond what was expected or originally agreed upon.
In the workplace, it often refers to extra money given to employees as a reward for good performance or during holiday seasons.
Word history: The word bonus comes from Latin, where it meant good. It entered the English language in the late 18th century, initially used in the stock market to describe extra dividends paid to shareholders.
Antonyms: Some antonyms for bonus include penalty, deduction, loss, and forfeit.
Synonyms: Synonyms for bonus include extra, perk, incentive, reward, and gratuity.
Examples use in sentences: The company gave all employees a year-end bonus to celebrate a successful quarter.
As a bonus for completing the survey, participants received a free movie ticket. The new smartphone comes with a bonus accessory pack, including headphones and a protective case.
Common errors in use: One common mistake is confusing bonus with commission. While a bonus is an extra payment often given at the discretion of the employer, a commission is a pre-agreed percentage of sales or profits.
Another error is using bonus as a verb, as in I was bonused last year. Instead, you should say I received a bonus last year.
To wrap up, a bonus is an extra reward or benefit beyond what’s expected. Whether it’s extra money from your job or a free gift with a purchase, bonuses are always a welcome surprise.
Remember to practice using this word in your own sentences to fully incorporate it into your active vocabulary for the IELTS exam.
