A job or series of related jobs that a person does over a long period of their life.
From French 'carrière', meaning 'road', 'racecourse', or 'career', from Late Latin 'carraria', 'carriage road', related to 'carrus', 'wagon'. It originally suggested a running course or path.
Your 'career' is literally your racetrack—the path you run on in life. The word quietly reminds you that it’s not just about a single job, but about the long route you’re choosing to sprint, jog, or wander along.
Historically, many professions were formally or informally closed to women and marginalized genders, and 'career women' were often singled out as deviating from domestic expectations. Language around 'career' has reflected and reinforced unequal access and stereotypes about ambition and suitability.
Use 'career' in ways that normalize all genders having careers in any field, and avoid implying that career focus is unusual or problematic for women or caregivers. When giving examples, distribute high-status and technical careers across genders.
["profession","working life","vocational path"]
Women and gender-diverse people have built careers in every sector, often challenging discriminatory norms and opening paths for others. Highlighting their achievements helps counter the legacy of exclusion from many career tracks.
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