compensation
19 synonyms and 2 antonyms for compensation, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — Money or another benefit given to make up for a loss, injury, or inconvenience.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
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.
Antonyms
How to use compensation
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Latin compensatio, built from compensare, "to balance one thing against another."
Full origin of compensation →Frequently asked questions
What does “compensation” mean?
The word “compensation” means money or another benefit given to make up for a loss, injury, or inconvenience. In plain terms, a payment or benefit meant to balance out a loss, or simply someone's pay and benefits.
How do you pronounce “compensation”?
“Compensation” is pronounced kom-puhn-SAY-shuhn (/ˌkɑm.pənˈseɪ.ʃən/ in IPA).
How do you use “compensation” in a sentence?
Here is “compensation” used in a sentence: “He received compensation after the accident at work.”
What is another word for “compensation”?
Words with a similar meaning to “compensation” include amends, acquittal, assyth, bote, indemnification and indemnity.
What is the opposite of “compensation”?
The opposite of “compensation” — its antonyms — are noncompensation and penalty.
What part of speech is “compensation”?
“Compensation” is a noun.
Where does the word “compensation” come from?
The word “compensation” comes from Latin. From Latin compensatio, built from compensare, "to balance one thing against another.".
Is “compensation” a common word?
“Compensation” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between "compensation" and "salary"?
"Salary" is the fixed, regular pay someone receives for a job, while "compensation" is a broader term for total reward, including salary, bonuses, and benefits. In another sense, compensation can also mean money paid to make up for a loss or injury.
What is the difference between "compensation" and "reimbursement"?
Reimbursement means paying someone back for a specific cost they have already paid, such as travel expenses. Compensation is broader and often means money given to make up for a loss, injury, or inconvenience, not just to repay an exact amount.
What is the difference between "compensation" and "damages"?
"Damages" is the legal term for a sum a court orders one party to pay another for harm or loss. "Compensation" is the wider everyday word for any money or benefit given to make up for a loss, which may or may not involve a court.
Can "compensation" mean both an injury payout and work pay?
Yes. In one sense, compensation is money given to make up for a loss, injury, or inconvenience, as in a compensation claim. In another, it means the pay or reward given for work performed, as in an employee's compensation package.