French Conversation · Level 97
60 words
French word
sinécure
Pronunciation
IPA/sinekyʁ/
Meaning
- feminine nouncushy job
Example
Il a obtenu une sinécure.
He got a cushy job.
More examples
Son emploi est une sinécure : il n'a presque rien à faire.
His job is a sinecure: he has almost nothing to do.
Core concept
A paid post with a title but little or no real work behind it.
Similar words
emploi: A job or occupation that provides a means of earning money.
travail: Tasks or work carried out through physical or mental effort.
poste: An organizational position involving a particular role or rank.
job: Casual or temporary work, often done as a side job.
Definition in French
Terme désignant un emploi qui offre un salaire ou un titre mais demande peu ou pas de tâches effectives.
Word origin
The French noun comes from Medieval Latin sine cura, meaning 'without care', an expression for an office requiring no duties.
Usage tips
- Sinécure is feminine, so the singular form is une sinécure; it often carries a critical or ironic tone.
Opposites
- emploi à responsabilitésposition with responsibilitiesnoun
- travail prenantdemanding jobnoun