employ
4 antonyms and opposites of employ, grouped by meaning.
Verb — To hire someone and pay them to do work.
Antonyms
How to use employ
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old French emploiier, "to make use of," ultimately from Latin implicare, "to involve" or "engage" — the same root as "imply."
Full origin of employ →Frequently asked questions
What does “employ” mean?
The word “employ” means to hire someone and pay them to do work. In plain terms, to give someone a paid job, or to use a particular method or tool for a task.
How do you pronounce “employ”?
“Employ” is pronounced ihm-PLOY (/ɪmˈplɔɪ/ in IPA).
How do you use “employ” in a sentence?
Here is “employ” used in a sentence: “The factory employs over two hundred workers.”
What is another word for “employ”?
Words with a similar meaning to “employ” include apply, appoint, bestow, brook, commission and commit.
What is the opposite of “employ”?
The opposite of “employ” — its antonyms — are discard, shun, disuse and surrender.
What part of speech is “employ”?
“Employ” is a verb.
Where does the word “employ” come from?
The word “employ” comes from Latin. From Old French emploiier, "to make use of," ultimately from Latin implicare, "to involve" or "engage" — the same root as "imply.".
Is “employ” a common word?
“Employ” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between employ and hire?
Both involve paying someone to do work, but "hire" often emphasises the initial act of taking someone on, while "employ" suggests the ongoing working relationship. You hire a new worker, and once they are working for you, you employ them.
What is the difference between employ and use?
In the sense of making use of something, "employ" is a more formal synonym for "use." You employ a method, strategy, or skill, much as you use a tool, but "employ" sounds more deliberate and elevated.
When should you use employ instead of use?
Choose "employ" in formal, academic, or professional writing, as in "the study employed a new technique." In everyday speech, "use" is more natural and less stiff.
Is employ a formal or informal word?
Employ is on the formal side. It is common in business, legal, and academic contexts, whereas "hire," "take on," and "use" feel more conversational.