clerical
3 synonyms and 2 antonyms for clerical, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Relating to routine office work, such as filing, typing, or record-keeping.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
black-collar
Antonyms
How to use clerical
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
clerical error
clerical work
clerical staff
Etymology
From Late Latin clericalis, from clericus — the same root as both "clerk" and "cleric," which explains the word's two very different modern meanings.
Full origin of clerical →Frequently asked questions
What does “clerical” mean?
The word “clerical” means relating to routine office work, such as filing, typing, or record-keeping. In plain terms, usually means "office/paperwork-related" (a clerical error), but can also mean "related to the clergy.".
How do you pronounce “clerical”?
“Clerical” is pronounced KLEH-rih-kuhl (/ˈklɛɹɪkəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “clerical” in a sentence?
Here is “clerical” used in a sentence: “The mistake was just a clerical error in the paperwork.”
What is another word for “clerical”?
Words with a similar meaning to “clerical” include black-collar, cleric and pastoral.
What is the opposite of “clerical”?
The opposite of “clerical” — its antonyms — are lay and secular.
What part of speech is “clerical”?
“Clerical” is an adjective.
Where does the word “clerical” come from?
The word “clerical” comes from Late Latin. From Late Latin clericalis, from clericus — the same root as both "clerk" and "cleric," which explains the word's two very different modern meanings.
Is “clerical” a common word?
“Clerical” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
