English Reference

Word

benefits

Phoneticsben·e·fits, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈbɛnəfɪts/

UK/bˈɛnɪfˌɪts/

Definitions

01advantages

B1 · Intermediate Countable noun

n. the good effects or advantages you get from something.

n. advantages or positive outcomes derived from a specific action, situation, or product.

“One of the benefits of living in the city is having everything within walking distance.”

“The environmental benefits of the new policy are expected to outweigh the initial implementation costs over the next decade.”

02government support

B1 · Intermediate Uncountable noun Law British English

n. money that the government pays to people who are sick, unemployed, or poor.

n. financial assistance provided by the state to individuals in need, such as the unemployed or those with disabilities.

“He was on benefits for six months while he looked for a new job.”

“The government announced a major overhaul of the benefits system to encourage more people back into the workforce.”

Usage

Often used with the preposition 'on', as in 'to be on benefits'.

Synonyms

welfareallowancessocial security

03employment perks

B2 · Upper Intermediate Plural noun

n. extra things you get from your job in addition to your salary, like health insurance.

n. non-wage compensations provided to employees in addition to their normal wages or salaries.

“The job offers a good salary and excellent benefits, including a company car.”

“Prospective employees often prioritise flexible working hours and comprehensive health benefits over a slightly higher base salary.”

Synonyms

Collocations

Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “benefits” in context.

01. benefits bill 02. benefits system

Idioms

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
Frequency
Very common
Level
B1 · Intermediate
Updated

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