compo: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowInformal, colloquial
Quick answer
What does “compo” mean?
A colloquial shortening of 'compensation', especially workers' compensation.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A colloquial shortening of 'compensation', especially workers' compensation.
Can also refer to composite materials, competition, or composition in various informal contexts.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In British English, 'compo' can refer to compensation or a composite material. In American English, it is rarely used; 'workers' comp' is preferred for compensation.
Connotations
In Australian/British contexts, often has a slightly negative or bureaucratic connotation related to injury claims. In other uses, it is neutral and technical.
Frequency
Much more common in Australian English than in British or American English.
Grammar
How to Use “compo” in a Sentence
be on compoclaim comporeceive compoget compo forVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “compo” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- He's trying to compo his employer for the accident.
- They compoed the company for negligence.
American English
- He's trying to get workers' comp for the accident.
- They sued the company for negligence.
adjective
British English
- It's a compo claim.
- He's on compo leave.
American English
- It's a workers' comp claim.
- He's on disability leave.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Informal reference to compensation payments in HR or insurance contexts.
Academic
Rare; might appear in sociology papers discussing workers' rights.
Everyday
Used conversationally, especially in Australia, to discuss injury claims.
Technical
In manufacturing/construction, can refer to composite materials.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “compo”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “compo”
- Using 'compo' in formal writing
- Assuming it is understood in all English varieties
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is informal and colloquial. Use 'compensation' in formal contexts.
Yes, informally it can also refer to composite materials or a competition, but 'compensation' is the most common meaning.
Probably not in the compensation sense. They use 'workers' comp' instead.
Informally, yes, especially in Australian English, meaning to claim or receive compensation.
A colloquial shortening of 'compensation', especially workers' compensation.
Compo: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkɒmpəʊ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkɑːmpoʊ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “on the compo”
- “compo culture”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'COMPO' as COMpensation PayOut.
Conceptual Metaphor
COMPENSATION IS A SUPPORT SYSTEM (financial support after injury).
Practice
Quiz
In which variety of English is 'compo' most commonly used to mean 'workers' compensation'?