The idiom "between jobs" is a polite way of saying someone is unemployed or looking for a new job. It implies that the person has a previous job and expects to find another soon. It can also be used to avoid giving details about one's current situation or reasons for leaving a last job.

In short:

• It means temporarily unemployed or looking for a new job.
• It is a polite and vague expression.
• It suggests optimism and continuity.

What Does "Between Jobs" Mean?

The idiom "between jobs" means that someone is not currently working but is actively searching for a new job or waiting for an opportunity to start one. It is a euphemism that avoids the negative connotations of unemployment, such as being lazy, unqualified, or unsuccessful. It also implies that the person has some work experience and skills that will help them find another job shortly.

Where Does "Between Jobs" Come From?

The origin of the "between jobs" idiom is unclear. However, it seems to have emerged in the 20th century, along with the development of the modern labor market and the rise of unemployment. It became more popular and widespread in the following decades, especially during economic crises and social change, such as the Great Depression, World War II, and the post-war era.

Historical Example

According to some sources, the earliest recorded use of the phrase "between jobs" was in 1928, in a newspaper article about a man who was arrested for stealing a car. The article quoted him as saying:

"I am between jobs just now and thought I would take a little spin around town."

10 Examples of "Between Jobs" in Sentences

Here are some examples of how to use this idiom in sentences:

• Quite frankly, I'm not unemployed; I'm just between jobs now.
• He's between jobs but is taking online courses to improve his skills.
• She's happy with her new job; she doesn't miss being between jobs anyway.
• He told me he was between jobs, but I think he lied. He hasn't worked in years.
• That's too bad. He's been between jobs for too long, losing hope and motivation.
• He's been between jobs for a while now, having trouble finding work in his field.
• She's not lazy; she's between jobs. She's been sending out resumes day in and day out.
• Fret not. I'm only between jobs for a few days. I have some interviews lined up next week.
• No mean feat. She quit her teaching career and is now between jobs until she finds something better.
• Yaas. She's not ashamed of being between jobs; she sees it as an opportunity to explore new possibilities.

Examples of "Between Jobs" in Pop Culture

Here are some examples of how this idiom appeared in various forms of popular culture:

• In the movie The Big Lebowski (1998), the main character, Jeff "The Dude" Lebowski, is a slacker who is constantly asked about his occupation. He usually replies that he is "between jobs" or "unemployed."
• In the TV show Friends (1994-2004), the character of Rachel Green starts the series as a spoiled rich girl who is "between jobs" after leaving her fiancé at the altar. She then gets a job as a waitress at a coffee shop and later pursues a career in fashion.
• In the song "Loser" (1994) by Beck, the chorus includes the line: "I'm a loser baby, so why don't you kill me?" The song is a satire of the grunge culture and the generation of young people who felt alienated and disillusioned in the 1990s. The song also mentions that the singer is "between jobs."
• In the comic strip Dilbert (1989-present) by Scott Adams, the character of Wally is a lazy and incompetent engineer who works for a dysfunctional company. He often claims he is "between jobs" or "on sabbatical" when caught doing nothing or avoiding work.

Synonyms: Other/Different Ways to Say "Between Jobs"

Here are different ways to say this idiom:

• On hiatus
• On the go
• On the run
• Job hunting
• On the hunt
• On the move
• On the prowl
• Job searching
• Looking for work
• Seeking employment

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Between Jobs"

Here are some frequently asked questions about this idiom:

• What does "between jobs" mean?

The idiom "between jobs" is a polite way of saying someone is unemployed or looking for a new job. It implies that the person has a previous job and expects to find another soon.

• What is the origin of the phrase "between jobs"?

The origin of the "between jobs" idiom is unclear. However, it seems to have emerged in the 20th century, along with the development of the modern labor market and the rise of unemployment.

• What is the difference between "between jobs" and "unemployed"?

The difference between "between jobs" and "unemployed" is that "between jobs" is a more polite and vague way of saying that someone is not working, while "unemployed" is a more direct and negative way of saying it. Between jobs" implies that the person has some work experience and expects to find another job soon, while "unemployed" means that the person has no work experience or prospects.

• Is it okay to say "between jobs" on a resume or in an interview?
  

It depends on the context and the tone of the resume or interview. It is generally better to avoid saying "between jobs" on a resume or interview because it can sound evasive or dishonest. It is better to be specific and honest about why one left a previous job or is looking for a new one. However, suppose one has a good reason for being between jobs, such as taking care of family, pursuing education, traveling, volunteering, or freelancing. In that case, one can mention it briefly and positively.

• How long can someone be "between jobs" before it becomes a problem?

There is no definitive answer to how long someone can be between jobs before it becomes a problem because it depends on various factors, such as the industry, the economy, the skills, the qualifications, and the person's circumstances.

• What are some tips for being "between jobs"?

Update and polish one’s resume and cover letter. Also, they can expand their network with former colleagues, friends, family, and acquaintances. Plus, they can attend job fairs, workshops, seminars, and events related to their field of interest.

• How can someone cope with the emotional stress of being "between jobs"?

Acknowledge and accept one's feelings without judging oneself harshly. They can also seek support from family, friends, peers, counselors, or support groups. They may also engage in hobbies and interests that bring joy and satisfaction.

• How can someone boost their confidence and self-esteem when being "between jobs"?

By reminding oneself of one's strengths, skills, achievements, and values. In addition, by setting realistic and attainable goals and celebrating every progress and success. Furthermore, by learning from failures and mistakes without dwelling on them or blaming oneself.

• How can someone balance their time and energy when being "between jobs"?

Creating a daily or weekly schedule includes time for job searching, learning, self-care, leisure, and socializing. Also, prioritizing the most critical and urgent tasks and delegating or eliminating the less important ones.

• What are some alternatives to being "between jobs"?

Returning to school or taking online courses to further one's education, acquiring new skills, or starting or joining a business, project, or venture that can generate income or fulfill one's passion.

Final Thoughts About "Between Jobs"

The idiom "between jobs" is a polite and optimistic way of expressing one's unemployment status while implying that one has some work experience and expects to find another job soon.

Some basic information about the idiom's meaning are:

• It is a euphemism that avoids the negative connotations of being unemployed.
• It has been used since the 20th century, especially during periods of economic crisis and social change.
• It can be used in different contexts and situations to explain or avoid giving details about one's reasons for leaving a previous job.
• It has many synonyms that have similar or slightly different meanings.