chief vocation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "chief vocation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to someone's primary occupation or calling in life, often in a formal or literary context. Example: "Her chief vocation as a teacher has inspired countless students to pursue their dreams."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I'd say that dress codes these days are more occasion- than vocation-specific," said Peter C. Yesawich, chief executive of YPB&R, an Orlando advertising agency.

The New York Times

Mr. Arons, who spends the early part of the evening tripping over dogs to refill Champagne flutes, is the chief executive of Gourmet Garage in Chelsea, a vocation that comes in handy when planning the menu.

The New York Times

The President needs to remember his post's true vocation: that of the Storyteller-in-Chief. Losing the super majority won't kill the Obama presidency.

The New Yorker

As a late vocation priest, he previously worked as a journalist/newspaper reporter and deputy chief of staff to a congressman.

Cornell University

Vocation, vocation, vocation, Kirstie.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

A vocation?

The New Yorker

It's a vocation.

The Guardian

Their vocation is vacation.

The New York Times - Arts

It was a vocation.

The New Yorker

Teaching was his vocation.

The Economist

Gill had another vocation.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "chief vocation" to emphasize the most important aspect of someone's professional life or calling, particularly in formal or literary contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "chief vocation" in casual conversation or informal writing, as it may sound overly formal or pretentious. Opt for simpler alternatives like "main job" or "primary interest" in those contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "chief vocation" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "chief" modifies the noun "vocation". It identifies a person's main occupation or calling. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

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Academia

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

Science

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Wiki

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "chief vocation" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe someone's primary occupation or calling. Although Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness, it is relatively infrequent and tends to appear in formal or professional settings. Consider using more common alternatives like ""primary occupation"" or ""main profession"" in less formal contexts. While the sources were limited, the analysis provides insights into its usage and potential alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

primary calling

Focuses on the inherent or divinely inspired nature of the vocation.

main occupation

Emphasizes the work or activity that takes up most of someone's time.

principal profession

Highlights the professional aspect and importance of the vocation.

career focus

Highlights professional growth and development in the vocation.

life's work

Suggests a vocation that spans a significant portion of someone's life.

primary pursuit

Emphasizes the active engagement and dedication to the vocation.

central interest

Highlights the passion and enthusiasm associated with the vocation.

core activity

Focuses on the fundamental actions and tasks within the vocation.

major endeavor

Emphasizes the effort and ambition involved in the vocation.

overarching goal

Suggests a vocation that defines someone's long-term aspirations.

FAQs

What does "chief vocation" mean?

The phrase "chief vocation" refers to someone's main or primary occupation, calling, or purpose in life. It emphasizes the most important aspect of their professional or personal endeavors.

How can I use "chief vocation" in a sentence?

You might say, "Her "primary calling" was medicine, but her "chief vocation" became teaching future doctors.".

What are some alternatives to "chief vocation"?

Alternatives include "primary occupation", "main profession", "life's work", or "principal pursuit" depending on the specific context.

Is "chief vocation" a common phrase?

No, "chief vocation" is not a commonly used phrase. It's more formal and less frequent than alternatives like "main job" or "career focus".