# benefits

/ˈbɛnəfɪts/ (US) · /bˈɛnɪfˌɪts/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/benefits
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. advantages

noun · CEFR B1

the good effects or advantages you get from something.

For teachers: 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.

### 2. government support

noun · CEFR B1 · British English

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

For teachers: 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'.

### 3. employment perks

noun · CEFR B2

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

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- Regular exercise has many health benefits.
- The new job offers several benefits, including a private health insurance plan and a flexible work schedule.
- Economists argue that the long-term benefits of investing in renewable energy infrastructure far outweigh the initial capital expenditure required to transition away from fossil fuels.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.