Learn English – Do you “supplement” your income

word-choice

Say you're a teacher and for the summer you need a job… to "supplement" your income? I'm helping a friend with her résumé (under reason for applying) and any help would be appreciated.

Definition of supplement: Add an extra element or amount to.

Doesn't seem right, so I'm just making sure.

Best Answer

I've used the phrase myself before and heard it dozens of times in all kinds of contexts. It is correct, it is in common usage, and no one is going to think it sounds funny.

However, from a resume perspective, please don't make supplementary income the focus of "reason for applying." Nobody who is looking to hire wants to read that as the #1 reason, even if it's true.

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