Avocation and vocation look similar, but they usually describe different parts of your life: an outside interest, a main occupation, or a sense of calling.
An avocation is an activity you enjoy apart from your main work. It is often a hobby, although it can be a serious pursuit. The word is fairly formal; in everyday conversation, hobby or outside interest is usually more natural.
- Although Leo works in finance, restoring old furniture is his avocation.
- Birdwatching began as a casual interest and became her favorite avocation.
A vocation can mean your main occupation or profession. It can also mean a strong feeling that you are suited to a particular kind of work. In this second sense, it is close to calling, and it does not necessarily describe your current paid job.
- By vocation, Marta is an architect.
- During his volunteer work, Daniel discovered a vocation for nursing.
Consider someone who earns a living as a teacher and paints on weekends. Painting could be that person’s avocation. Teaching could be their vocation, especially if they find it deeply meaningful.
The distinction is not simply whether an activity earns money. An outside interest may bring in some income, and a calling may develop before paid employment begins. Choose the word according to the activity’s role in the person’s life, not just whether they receive payment.