What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pension
Example
My grandfather receives a pension from the government after working for many years. [pension: noun]
Example
She plans to pension off and travel the world once she retires. [pension: verb]
superannuation
Example
The company offers superannuation benefits to its employees as part of their compensation package. [superannuation: noun]
Example
He plans to use his superannuation fund to buy a house after he retires. [superannuation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pension is more commonly used than superannuation globally, as it is a more general term that applies to retirement benefits in various countries. Superannuation is specific to Australia and New Zealand and is less common outside of these countries.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pension and superannuation?
Both pension and superannuation are formal terms used in official contexts such as employment contracts and government policies.
