colega
/koˈlɛ.ɡa/A person with whom one works, typically in a professional or academic setting.
Ho organizzato una riunione con i miei colleghi.
I organized a meeting with my colleagues.
I colleghi di ufficio sono molto disponibili.
My office colleagues are very helpful.
Used for both professional and academic contexts. In informal settings, 'collega' can also refer to peers in non-work contexts.
Collocations
Synonyms
💡Pro Tip
Gender-Neutral Usage
Unlike in some languages where job titles change based on gender (e.g., 'waiter' vs. 'waitress'), 'collega' is the same for both men and women in Italian. In English, 'colleague' is also gender-neutral.
⚡Gold Rule
Formal vs. Informal
'Collega' is formal and should be used in professional or academic contexts. Avoid using it for friends unless in a very casual or humorous context.
📖Word Origin
From Latin 'collega' (fellow worker, partner), from 'com-' (together) + 'legare' (to choose, select). The term entered Italian via Latin and has retained its original meaning.
📝Usage Notes
The term is gender-neutral in Italian. For a female colleague, 'collega' is still used (not 'collega' vs. 'collega'). In English, 'colleague' is also gender-neutral.