What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
salary
Example
She earns a high salary as a software engineer. [salary: noun]
Example
He was offered a salary increase after his promotion. [salary: adjective]
wage
Example
The minimum wage in this state is $15 per hour. [wage: noun]
Example
She works for minimum wage at the fast-food restaurant. [wage: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Wage is more commonly used than salary in everyday language, especially in reference to low-paying jobs. However, salary is more common in professional settings and is often associated with higher-paying jobs.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between salary and wage?
Salary is generally considered more formal than wage, as it is associated with professional jobs and negotiations. Wage is more informal and is often used in casual conversations about low-paying jobs.
