Ultimate Workplace Vocabulary List for ESL Class [150 Words]

Workplace vocabulary is essential for anyone learning English to succeed in a professional environment. Whether you are a teacher planning lessons or a learner preparing for real work situations, this post has everything you need.

Inside, you will find 150 carefully chosen words that cover all important areas of the workplace. Each word comes with its CEFR level, pronunciation in IPA, clear meanings, and example sentences. This makes it easy for you to understand and use them correctly.

But this resource is more than just a list. It helps you design engaging lessons with conversations, questions, role-plays, and debates. These activities are perfect to practice common expressions and build confidence speaking English at work.

If you want your students to communicate better, understand office culture, and handle everyday work tasks smoothly, this is the best place to start. Use this vocabulary to make your classes lively and practical.

Keep reading to discover all the categories and words that will make your workplace English teaching and learning easier and more effective. This post is the ultimate guide to workplace vocabulary for ESL teachers and learners alike!

Job Titles & Roles Vocabulary List

1. Manager
CEFR: A2
IPA: /ˈmæn.ɪ.dʒər/
Meaning: A person who is in charge of a department or group.
Example: The manager approved my vacation request.

2. Employee
CEFR: A2
IPA: /ɪmˈplɔɪ.iː/
Meaning: A person who works for a company or organization.
Example: All employees must wear an ID badge.

3. Intern
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈɪn.tɜːn/
Meaning: A student or new graduate working to gain experience.
Example: She worked as an intern during the summer.

4. Supervisor
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈsuː.pə.vaɪ.zər/
Meaning: A person who oversees others at work.
Example: My supervisor gave me feedback on the report.

5. Receptionist
CEFR: A2
IPA: /rɪˈsep.ʃən.ɪst/
Meaning: A person who greets visitors and answers phones in an office.
Example: The receptionist welcomed the new clients.

6. CEO (Chief Executive Officer)
CEFR: B2
IPA: /ˌsiː.iːˈəʊ/
Meaning: The highest-ranking person in a company.
Example: The CEO gave a speech at the company event.

7. Colleague
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈkɒl.iːɡ/
Meaning: A person you work with.
Example: I had lunch with my colleague today.

8. Assistant
CEFR: A2
IPA: /əˈsɪs.tənt/
Meaning: A person who helps someone with their work.
Example: The assistant prepared the meeting room.

9. Technician
CEFR: B1
IPA: /tekˈnɪʃ.ən/
Meaning: A skilled worker who repairs or maintains equipment.
Example: The technician fixed the printer quickly.

10. Team Leader
CEFR: B1
IPA: /tiːm ˈliː.dər/
Meaning: A person who guides a group of workers.
Example: Our team leader organizes the daily tasks.

Departments & Company Structure Vocabulary List

1. Human Resources (HR)
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˌhjuː.mən rɪˈzɔː.sɪz/
Meaning: The department that manages employee hiring, benefits, and issues.
Example: If you have any questions about your contract, go to Human Resources.

2. Finance
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈfaɪ.næns/
Meaning: The department responsible for managing money in a company.
Example: The finance department prepares the budget reports.

3. Marketing
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈmɑː.kɪ.tɪŋ/
Meaning: The department that promotes products or services.
Example: The marketing team created a new campaign for the product.

4. Sales
CEFR: A2
IPA: /seɪlz/
Meaning: The department that sells products or services.
Example: He works in sales and visits clients every week.

5. IT (Information Technology)
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˌɪn.fəˈmeɪ.ʃən tekˈnɒ.lə.dʒi/
Meaning: The department that handles computers, software, and technical issues.
Example: Contact the IT department if your computer isn’t working.

6. Customer Service
CEFR: A2
IPA: /ˌkʌs.tə.mə ˈsɜː.vɪs/
Meaning: The department that helps customers with questions or problems.
Example: I called customer service to ask about my order.

7. Administration
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ədˌmɪn.ɪˈstreɪ.ʃən/
Meaning: The department that supports office operations and paperwork.
Example: The administration team scheduled the training session.

8. Legal
CEFR: B2
IPA: /ˈliː.ɡəl/
Meaning: The department that handles legal issues and contracts.
Example: The legal department reviewed the agreement.

9. Operations
CEFR: B2
IPA: /ˌɒp.ərˈeɪ.ʃənz/
Meaning: The department that manages day-to-day activities in the company.
Example: Operations ensure the business runs smoothly.

10. Research and Development (R&D)
CEFR: B2
IPA: /rɪˈsɜːtʃ ənd dɪˈvel.əp.mənt/
Meaning: The department that creates and tests new products.
Example: The R&D team is working on a new energy drink.

Office Equipment & Technology Vocabulary List

1. Computer
CEFR: A1
IPA: /kəmˈpjuː.tər/
Meaning: An electronic machine used for work, communication, or entertainment.
Example: She uses a computer to write reports and send emails.

2. Printer
CEFR: A2
IPA: /ˈprɪn.tər/
Meaning: A machine that produces paper copies of documents or images.
Example: The office printer is out of ink again.

3. Photocopier
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈfəʊ.təʊˌkɒp.i.ər/
Meaning: A machine used to make copies of documents.
Example: Please use the photocopier to make handouts for the meeting.

4. Scanner
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈskæn.ər/
Meaning: A device that copies documents and sends them to a computer.
Example: I scanned the signed contract and emailed it.

5. Laptop
CEFR: A2
IPA: /ˈlæp.tɒp/
Meaning: A portable computer you can carry and use anywhere.
Example: I always take my laptop to meetings.

6. Monitor
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈmɒn.ɪ.tər/
Meaning: The screen part of a computer that shows information.
Example: He connected a second monitor for better multitasking.

7. Keyboard
CEFR: A2
IPA: /ˈkiː.bɔːd/
Meaning: A panel of keys used to type on a computer.
Example: My keyboard is not working properly.

8. Mouse
CEFR: A2
IPA: /maʊs/
Meaning: A device used to move the pointer and click on a computer screen.
Example: Use the mouse to open the file.

9. Projector
CEFR: B1
IPA: /prəˈdʒek.tər/
Meaning: A device that shows images or slides on a large screen or wall.
Example: The presentation was displayed with a projector.

10. USB Drive
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˌjuː.esˈbiː draɪv/
Meaning: A small device used to store and move digital files.
Example: I saved the report on a USB drive.

Work Activities & Tasks Vocabulary List

1. Attend meetings
CEFR: A2
IPA: /əˈtend ˈmiː.tɪŋz/
Meaning: To go to organized discussions with colleagues or clients.
Example: I attend team meetings every Monday morning.

2. Take notes
CEFR: A2
IPA: /teɪk nəʊts/
Meaning: To write down important points during a meeting or lecture.
Example: Please take notes during the presentation.

3. Send emails
CEFR: A1
IPA: /send ˈiː.meɪlz/
Meaning: To write and deliver electronic messages.
Example: I send emails to clients every day.

4. Make phone calls
CEFR: A2
IPA: /meɪk fəʊn kɔːlz/
Meaning: To call people by telephone to communicate.
Example: She made several phone calls to confirm the appointment.

5. Prepare reports
CEFR: B1
IPA: /prɪˈpeər rɪˈpɔːts/
Meaning: To write official documents with information and analysis.
Example: I spent the afternoon preparing the monthly report.

6. Schedule appointments
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈʃed.juːl əˈpɔɪnt.mənts/
Meaning: To arrange times for meetings or services.
Example: The secretary scheduled all the appointments for next week.

7. File documents
CEFR: A2
IPA: /faɪl ˈdɒk.jʊ.mənts/
Meaning: To organize papers or digital files into storage.
Example: She spent the morning filing documents in alphabetical order.

8. Meet deadlines
CEFR: B1
IPA: /miːt ˈded.laɪnz/
Meaning: To complete tasks or projects on time.
Example: We must meet the deadline for submitting the proposal.

9. Give presentations
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ɡɪv ˌprez.ənˈteɪ.ʃənz/
Meaning: To speak in front of others to share information or ideas.
Example: He gave a presentation on the new marketing strategy.

10. Collaborate with others
CEFR: B2
IPA: /kəˈlæb.ə.reɪt wɪð ˈʌð.əz/
Meaning: To work together with other people on a task or project.
Example: Our team collaborates with the design department regularly.

Meetings & Communication Vocabulary List

1. Agenda
CEFR: B1
IPA: /əˈdʒen.də/
Meaning: A list of topics to be discussed in a meeting.
Example: The manager sent the agenda before the meeting started.

2. Minutes
CEFR: B2
IPA: /ˈmɪn.ɪts/
Meaning: The official written record of what is discussed and decided in a meeting.
Example: She wrote the minutes of the last meeting.

3. Chairperson
CEFR: B2
IPA: /ˈtʃeə.pɜː.sən/
Meaning: The person who leads or controls a meeting.
Example: The chairperson opened the meeting with a short speech.

4. Conference call
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈkɒn.fər.əns kɔːl/
Meaning: A phone call involving more than two people, usually for business purposes.
Example: We had a conference call with the regional office this morning.

5. Clarify
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈklær.ɪ.faɪ/
Meaning: To make something easier to understand.
Example: Could you clarify what you mean by that?

6. Interrupt
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˌɪn.təˈrʌpt/
Meaning: To stop someone from speaking by saying or doing something.
Example: Please don’t interrupt when someone else is speaking.

7. Discuss
CEFR: A2
IPA: /dɪˈskʌs/
Meaning: To talk about something with someone, especially in detail.
Example: Let’s discuss the next steps after lunch.

8. Point out
CEFR: B1
IPA: /pɔɪnt aʊt/
Meaning: To bring attention to something important.
Example: She pointed out a mistake in the report.

9. Give feedback
CEFR: B2
IPA: /ɡɪv ˈfiːd.bæk/
Meaning: To provide comments or suggestions about someone’s work or performance.
Example: My manager gave helpful feedback on my project.

10. Reach a consensus
CEFR: B2
IPA: /riːtʃ ə kənˈsen.səs/
Meaning: To come to a general agreement as a group.
Example: After a long discussion, we reached a consensus.

Employment Terms Vocabulary List

1. Full-time
CEFR: A2
IPA: /ˌfʊlˈtaɪm/
Meaning: Working the usual number of hours per week, typically around 40 hours.
Example: She has a full-time job at the marketing agency.

2. Part-time
CEFR: A2
IPA: /ˌpɑːtˈtaɪm/
Meaning: Working fewer hours than a full-time schedule.
Example: I work part-time so I can take care of my children.

3. Permanent
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈpɜː.mə.nənt/
Meaning: A job or position that does not have a fixed end date.
Example: He was offered a permanent position after his internship.

4. Temporary
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈtem.pər.ər.i/
Meaning: A job that lasts for a limited period of time.
Example: They hired a temporary assistant during the busy season.

5. Contract
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈkɒn.trækt/
Meaning: A written or spoken agreement about employment conditions.
Example: She signed a one-year contract with the company.

6. Probation period
CEFR: B2
IPA: /prəˈbeɪ.ʃən ˌpɪə.ri.əd/
Meaning: A trial period to evaluate a new employee’s performance.
Example: The first three months are a probation period.

7. Salary
CEFR: A2
IPA: /ˈsæl.ər.i/
Meaning: The money paid to an employee regularly for their work.
Example: She earns a good salary in her new job.

8. Wage
CEFR: B1
IPA: /weɪdʒ/
Meaning: The money paid for work, usually by the hour or week.
Example: The wage is $15 per hour.

9. Benefits
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈben.ɪ.fɪts/
Meaning: Extra perks given by an employer, such as health insurance or vacation days.
Example: Employees receive great benefits, including paid holidays.

10. Resignation
CEFR: B2
IPA: /ˌrez.ɪɡˈneɪ.ʃən/
Meaning: The act of leaving a job voluntarily.
Example: He handed in his resignation last Friday.

Professional Qualities & Soft Skills Vocabulary List

1. Reliable
CEFR: B1
IPA: /rɪˈlaɪ.ə.bəl/
Meaning: Someone who can be trusted to do what is expected.
Example: She is very reliable and always finishes her tasks on time.

2. Punctual
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈpʌŋk.tʃu.əl/
Meaning: Arriving or doing something at the expected or correct time.
Example: He is always punctual and never late for meetings.

3. Team player
CEFR: B1
IPA: /tiːm ˈpleɪ.ər/
Meaning: Someone who works well with others in a group.
Example: Our company values people who are team players.

4. Flexible
CEFR: B2
IPA: /ˈflek.sə.bəl/
Meaning: Able to adapt to different situations or changes.
Example: You need to be flexible when working in customer service.

5. Motivated
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈməʊ.tɪ.veɪ.tɪd/
Meaning: Having the desire to achieve goals or complete tasks.
Example: She’s highly motivated and always gives her best effort.

6. Creative
CEFR: A2
IPA: /kriˈeɪ.tɪv/
Meaning: Able to think of new and original ideas.
Example: The company is looking for someone who is creative and innovative.

7. Communicative
CEFR: B2
IPA: /kəˈmjuː.nɪ.kə.tɪv/
Meaning: Good at expressing ideas and sharing information.
Example: A communicative employee helps teams work better together.

8. Detail-oriented
CEFR: B2
IPA: /ˈdiː.teɪl ˌɔː.ri.en.tɪd/
Meaning: Focused on small aspects and accuracy in work.
Example: We need someone who is detail-oriented for this task.

9. Honest
CEFR: A2
IPA: /ˈɒn.ɪst/
Meaning: Always telling the truth and being fair.
Example: An honest employee builds trust in the workplace.

10. Responsible
CEFR: A2
IPA: /rɪˈspɒn.sə.bəl/
Meaning: Able to be trusted to do what is right or expected.
Example: He is a responsible team leader who takes care of every detail.

Workplace Behavior & Etiquette Vocabulary List

1. Professionalism
CEFR: B2
IPA: /prəˈfeʃ.ən.əl.ɪ.zəm/
Meaning: The behavior and attitude expected in a work environment.
Example: Professionalism includes being respectful and punctual.

2. Respect
CEFR: A2
IPA: /rɪˈspekt/
Meaning: Showing consideration and appreciation for others.
Example: It is important to show respect to all colleagues.

3. Courtesy
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈkɜː.tɪ.si/
Meaning: Polite behavior towards others.
Example: Courtesy helps create a friendly workplace.

4. Punctuality
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˌpʌŋk.tʃuˈæl.ɪ.ti/
Meaning: Being on time for work or meetings.
Example: Punctuality is valued in every company.

5. Dress code
CEFR: B1
IPA: /dres kəʊd/
Meaning: Rules about what employees should wear at work.
Example: The office has a formal dress code.

6. Confidentiality
CEFR: B2
IPA: /ˌkɒn.fɪ.den.ʃɪˈæl.ɪ.ti/
Meaning: Keeping private information secret.
Example: Employees must respect confidentiality agreements.

7. Teamwork
CEFR: A2
IPA: /ˈtiːm.wɜːk/
Meaning: Working well with others to achieve a goal.
Example: Good teamwork improves productivity.

8. Accountability
CEFR: B2
IPA: /əˌkaʊn.təˈbɪl.ɪ.ti/
Meaning: Taking responsibility for one’s actions.
Example: Accountability is essential in leadership roles.

9. Initiative
CEFR: B2
IPA: /ɪˈnɪʃ.ə.tɪv/
Meaning: The ability to start something independently.
Example: She showed great initiative by suggesting new ideas.

10. Conflict resolution
CEFR: B2
IPA: /ˈkɒn.flɪkt ˌrɛz.əˈluː.ʃən/
Meaning: The process of solving disagreements peacefully.
Example: Good conflict resolution skills help maintain a positive work environment.

Emails & Written Correspondence Vocabulary List

1. Subject line
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈsʌb.dʒɪkt laɪn/
Meaning: The title or topic of an email message.
Example: Always write a clear subject line to get attention.

2. Greeting
CEFR: A2
IPA: /ˈɡriː.tɪŋ/
Meaning: A polite way to start an email or letter.
Example: Use “Dear Mr. Smith” as a formal greeting.

3. Signature
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈsɪɡ.nə.tʃər/
Meaning: Your name and contact details at the end of an email.
Example: Include your signature with your job title.

4. Attachment
CEFR: B1
IPA: /əˈtætʃ.mənt/
Meaning: A file sent along with an email message.
Example: Please find the report attached to this email.

5. CC (carbon copy)
CEFR: B2
IPA: /ˌsiːˈsiː/
Meaning: Sending a copy of an email to someone other than the main recipient.
Example: I CC’d my manager on the email for transparency.

6. BCC (blind carbon copy)
CEFR: B2
IPA: /ˌbiːˌsiːˈsiː/
Meaning: Sending an email copy to someone without the others knowing.
Example: Use BCC to keep email addresses private.

7. Follow-up
CEFR: B2
IPA: /ˈfɒl.oʊ.ʌp/
Meaning: A message sent to check on a previous email or task.
Example: I sent a follow-up email after the meeting.

8. Formal tone
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈfɔːr.məl toʊn/
Meaning: A polite and professional way of writing.
Example: Use a formal tone when emailing a client.

9. Informal tone
CEFR: A2
IPA: /ɪnˈfɔːr.məl toʊn/
Meaning: A casual and friendly style of writing.
Example: Use an informal tone when emailing coworkers you know well.

10. Reply
CEFR: A2
IPA: /rɪˈplaɪ/
Meaning: To answer an email message.
Example: I will reply to your email by tomorrow.

Hiring & Interview Vocabulary List

1. Resume (CV)
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈrez.juˌmeɪ/ (also /ˌsiːˈviː/)
Meaning: A document summarizing a person’s work experience and education.
Example: Please send your resume before the interview.

2. Cover letter
CEFR: B2
IPA: /ˈkʌv.ər ˌlet.ər/
Meaning: A letter sent with a resume explaining why you want the job.
Example: The cover letter should explain your interest in the position.

3. Interview
CEFR: A2
IPA: /ˈɪn.tə.vjuː/
Meaning: A meeting where an employer asks questions to a job candidate.
Example: I have an interview scheduled for next Monday.

4. Candidate
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈkæn.dɪ.dət/
Meaning: A person applying for a job.
Example: The candidate answered all the questions confidently.

5. Job offer
CEFR: B1
IPA: /dʒɒb ˈɒf.ər/
Meaning: A proposal of employment from an employer.
Example: She received a job offer from the company yesterday.

6. Reference
CEFR: B2
IPA: /ˈref.ər.əns/
Meaning: A person who can speak about your work and character.
Example: Make sure your references are aware they might be contacted.

7. Experience
CEFR: A2
IPA: /ɪkˈspɪə.ri.əns/
Meaning: The knowledge or skill gained from work or life.
Example: The job requires at least two years of experience.

8. Strengths
CEFR: B1
IPA: /streŋθs/
Meaning: Positive qualities or skills a candidate has.
Example: Discuss your strengths during the interview.

9. Weaknesses
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈwiːk.nəsɪz/
Meaning: Areas where a candidate can improve.
Example: Be honest but positive when talking about your weaknesses.

10. Salary
CEFR: A2
IPA: /ˈsæl.ər.i/
Meaning: The money paid to an employee for their work.
Example: The salary offered was higher than I expected.

Work Schedules & Time Management Vocabulary List

1. Shift
CEFR: A2
IPA: /ʃɪft/
Meaning: A set period of work time during a day.
Example: I work the morning shift from 8 AM to 2 PM.

2. Overtime
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈoʊ.vər.taɪm/
Meaning: Working hours beyond the regular schedule.
Example: She stayed late to do some overtime.

3. Deadline
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈded.laɪn/
Meaning: The latest time by which a task must be finished.
Example: The project deadline is next Friday.

4. Break
CEFR: A1
IPA: /breɪk/
Meaning: A short rest period during work hours.
Example: We have a 15-minute break at 10 AM.

5. Time management
CEFR: B2
IPA: /taɪm ˈmæn.ɪdʒ.mənt/
Meaning: The skill of organizing and planning how to divide time between activities.
Example: Good time management helps you finish tasks on time.

6. Flexitime
CEFR: B2
IPA: /ˈflek.si.taɪm/
Meaning: A work schedule with flexible start and finish times.
Example: The company offers flexitime to support work-life balance.

7. Part-time
CEFR: A2
IPA: /ˈpɑːrt.taɪm/
Meaning: Working fewer hours than a full-time schedule.
Example: She has a part-time job at the library.

8. Full-time
CEFR: A2
IPA: /ˈfʊl.taɪm/
Meaning: Working the complete number of hours set by an employer.
Example: He works full-time in an office.

9. Appointment
CEFR: A2
IPA: /əˈpɔɪnt.mənt/
Meaning: A scheduled meeting at a specific time.
Example: I have a doctor’s appointment this afternoon.

10. Punctual
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈpʌŋk.tʃu.əl/
Meaning: Arriving or doing something at the expected time.
Example: Being punctual shows respect for others’ time.

Workplace Safety & Health Vocabulary List

1. Hazard
CEFR: B2
IPA: /ˈhæz.ərd/
Meaning: A potential source of danger or harm.
Example: Wet floors are a common hazard in offices.

2. Emergency
CEFR: A2
IPA: /ɪˈmɜːr.dʒən.si/
Meaning: A sudden, serious situation requiring immediate action.
Example: Know the emergency exits in your workplace.

3. First aid
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈfɜːrst eɪd/
Meaning: Immediate help given to someone injured or ill.
Example: All employees should learn basic first aid.

4. Fire drill
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈfaɪər drɪl/
Meaning: A practice of safely leaving the building in case of fire.
Example: The office holds a fire drill every six months.

5. Protective gear
CEFR: B1
IPA: /prəˈtek.tɪv ɡɪər/
Meaning: Equipment used to protect the body from injury.
Example: Workers must wear protective gear on the construction site.

6. Safety regulations
CEFR: B2
IPA: /ˈseɪf.ti ˌreɡ.jʊˈleɪ.ʃənz/
Meaning: Official rules to ensure safety at work.
Example: The company follows strict safety regulations.

7. Risk assessment
CEFR: B2
IPA: /rɪsk əˈses.mənt/
Meaning: The process of identifying and evaluating risks.
Example: A risk assessment was done before starting the project.

8. Workplace injury
CEFR: B2
IPA: /ˈwɜːk.pleɪs ˈɪn.dʒə.ri/
Meaning: Physical harm suffered at work.
Example: Reporting workplace injuries immediately is important.

9. Ergonomics
CEFR: B2
IPA: /ˌɜːrɡəˈnɒmɪks/
Meaning: The study of designing workplaces for comfort and efficiency.
Example: Ergonomics helps reduce back pain from long hours at a desk.

10. Fire extinguisher
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈfaɪər ɪkˈstɪŋ.ɡwɪ.ʃər/
Meaning: A device used to put out fires.
Example: Know where the fire extinguisher is located in your office.

Business Travel & Events Vocabulary List

1. Itinerary
CEFR: B2
IPA: /aɪˈtɪn.ər.er.i/
Meaning: A detailed plan or schedule of a trip.
Example: Please send me your travel itinerary before the meeting.

2. Reservation
CEFR: A2
IPA: /ˌrez.ərˈveɪ.ʃən/
Meaning: An arrangement to book a hotel room, flight, or seat.
Example: I made a reservation at the conference hotel.

3. Conference
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈkɒn.fər.əns/
Meaning: A formal meeting for discussion or training.
Example: The annual sales conference will be held next month.

4. Delegate
CEFR: B2
IPA: /ˈdel.ɪ.ɡət/
Meaning: A person chosen to represent others at a conference.
Example: She was a delegate at the international business summit.

5. Networking
CEFR: B2
IPA: /ˈnet.wɜːr.kɪŋ/
Meaning: Building professional relationships.
Example: Networking is important for career growth.

6. Accommodation
CEFR: B2
IPA: /əˌkɒm.əˈdeɪ.ʃən/
Meaning: A place to stay while traveling.
Example: The company booked accommodation for the entire team.

7. Travel expenses
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈtræv.əl ɪkˌspensɪz/
Meaning: Money spent on travel, such as tickets and hotels.
Example: Submit your travel expenses for reimbursement.

8. Visa
CEFR: B2
IPA: /ˈviː.zə/
Meaning: An official document allowing entry into a country.
Example: You need a visa to travel to that country.

9. Business trip
CEFR: A2
IPA: /ˈbɪz.nɪs trɪp/
Meaning: Travel for work purposes.
Example: She is on a business trip to London this week.

10. Workshop
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈwɜːk.ʃɒp/
Meaning: A short training session focused on a particular topic.
Example: The workshop on marketing strategies was very helpful.

Tools & Materials (for manual jobs) Vocabulary List

1. Hammer
CEFR: A1
IPA: /ˈhæm.ər/
Meaning: A tool with a heavy metal head used for hitting nails.
Example: The carpenter used a hammer to fix the wooden frame.

2. Screwdriver
CEFR: A1
IPA: /ˈskruːˌdraɪ.vər/
Meaning: A tool used for turning screws.
Example: She used a screwdriver to assemble the furniture.

3. Wrench
CEFR: B1
IPA: /rɛntʃ/
Meaning: A tool used to grip and turn nuts or bolts.
Example: The mechanic tightened the bolts with a wrench.

4. Drill
CEFR: A2
IPA: /drɪl/
Meaning: A tool used for making holes in materials.
Example: He used a drill to hang the shelf on the wall.

5. Tape measure
CEFR: A2
IPA: /teɪp ˈmeʒ.ər/
Meaning: A flexible ruler used to measure length or distance.
Example: Use a tape measure to check the size of the room.

6. Nails
CEFR: A1
IPA: /neɪlz/
Meaning: Small metal pins used for fastening things together.
Example: The builder hammered nails into the wood.

7. Gloves
CEFR: A1
IPA: /ɡlʌvz/
Meaning: Protective coverings for hands.
Example: Wear gloves to protect your hands while working.

8. Safety goggles
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈseɪf.ti ˈɡɒɡ.əlz/
Meaning: Protective glasses worn to shield eyes.
Example: Always wear safety goggles when using a drill.

9. Ladder
CEFR: A2
IPA: /ˈlæd.ər/
Meaning: A tool used for climbing up or down.
Example: He climbed the ladder to reach the roof.

10. Toolbox
CEFR: A2
IPA: /ˈtuːlˌbɒks/
Meaning: A container for holding tools.
Example: Keep your tools organized in a toolbox.

Customer Service Vocabulary List

1. Complaint
CEFR: B1
IPA: /kəmˈpleɪnt/
Meaning: A statement expressing dissatisfaction.
Example: The customer made a complaint about the delayed delivery.

2. Feedback
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈfiːd.bæk/
Meaning: Information about how well something is done.
Example: We appreciate your feedback to improve our service.

3. Refund
CEFR: B2
IPA: /ˈriː.fʌnd/
Meaning: Money returned to a customer for a returned product or poor service.
Example: The company issued a refund for the faulty item.

4. Inquiry
CEFR: B2
IPA: /ɪnˈkwaɪə.ri/
Meaning: A question or request for information.
Example: Customers often call with inquiries about product availability.

5. Resolution
CEFR: B2
IPA: /ˌrez.əˈluː.ʃən/
Meaning: The act of solving a problem or complaint.
Example: The support team worked quickly to reach a resolution.

6. Customer satisfaction
CEFR: B2
IPA: /ˈkʌs.tə.mər ˌsæt.ɪsˈfæk.ʃən/
Meaning: How happy customers are with a product or service.
Example: Improving customer satisfaction is our top priority.

7. Call center
CEFR: B1
IPA: /kɔːl ˈsen.tər/
Meaning: A place where customer service calls are handled.
Example: The call center received hundreds of calls daily.

8. Agent
CEFR: B1
IPA: /ˈeɪ.dʒənt/
Meaning: A person who helps customers by answering questions or solving problems.
Example: The agent assisted me with my order.

9. Hold
CEFR: A2
IPA: /hoʊld/
Meaning: To wait on the phone before speaking to a representative.
Example: Please hold while I check your account details.

10. Service policy
CEFR: B2
IPA: /ˈsɜːr.vɪs ˈpɒl.ɪ.si/
Meaning: Rules and guidelines for customer service.
Example: Our service policy guarantees a response within 24 hours.

Conclusion

You’ve now explored a complete and practical collection of workplace vocabulary designed to boost English skills in real work settings.

With these words, example sentences, and pronunciation guides, both teachers and learners have a powerful tool to build confidence and improve communication.

Using conversations, role-plays, questions, and debates based on this vocabulary will make learning more interactive and meaningful.

No matter what job your students want or where they work, mastering this workplace vocabulary will help them succeed.

Keep this resource handy, and watch how your lessons become more engaging and your learners more prepared for their professional lives.

This is truly the ultimate workplace vocabulary guide for ESL classes!

FAQs about Using Workplace Vocabulary in ESL Class

1. How can I use this vocabulary list in my ESL lessons?
You can use the list to create conversations, role-plays, quizzes, and debates. It helps students practice real workplace situations and common expressions.

2. Are the CEFR levels accurate for all learners?
The CEFR levels are a general guide to help you choose words suitable for your students’ proficiency. Always adapt activities based on your class’s needs.

3. Can this vocabulary list be used for all types of workplaces?
Yes! The list covers a wide range of categories, from office work to manual jobs and customer service, so it’s useful for many professional settings.

4. How can I teach pronunciation using this list?
Use the IPA transcriptions as a reference. Practice pronunciation drills and have students listen and repeat to improve their speaking skills.

5. What if students find some words too difficult?
Start with easier CEFR levels and gradually introduce more complex vocabulary. Use pictures, examples, and real-life contexts to make learning easier.

6. Can I create role-plays with this vocabulary?
Absolutely! Role-plays based on the vocabulary encourage students to use words naturally and build confidence in speaking.

7. How do I incorporate debates using workplace vocabulary?
Choose topics related to work, like teamwork or office rules, and encourage students to use the vocabulary to express opinions and support arguments.

8. Is this vocabulary useful for job interviews?
Yes, many words relate to hiring and interviews, making it perfect for learners preparing for job applications and interviews.

9. How often should I review this vocabulary with students?
Regular review is important. Use games, quizzes, and speaking activities to keep the vocabulary fresh and memorable.

10. Can this list help learners improve their writing skills?
Definitely. The vocabulary and example sentences provide useful language for writing emails, reports, and other workplace documents.