Definition

Noun: - A process of negotiation between an employer (or a group of employers) and a trade union (or unions) on behalf of the employees, aimed at reaching agreements on working conditions, wages, benefits, and other employment-related matters.

Usage

• Collective bargaining is a fundamental right for workers in many countries and is a core function of labor unions.
• The term is used as a compound noun. The process itself is referred to as "collective bargaining," and an agreement resulting from it is a "collective bargaining agreement."
• It is typically an uncountable noun when referring to the general process or concept.

Examples

• The union and management have entered into collective bargaining to discuss the new contract.
• A strong legal framework protects the right to collective bargaining.
• The strike began after collective bargaining talks broke down.
• The new collective bargaining agreement includes a significant pay raise.

Advanced Usage

• "To be in collective bargaining": Describes the state of currently engaging in negotiations.
  • The teachers' union is currently in collective bargaining with the school district.
• "Collective bargaining rights": Refers to the legal entitlements of workers to organize and bargain collectively.
  • The new law aims to strengthen workers' collective bargaining rights.

Variants and Related Words

• Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) (n): The formal, written contract that results from successful collective bargaining.
  • The new collective bargaining agreement will be in effect for three years.
• Bargain collectively (v): The verbal phrase form of the action.
  • The workers have the right to organize and bargain collectively.

Synonyms

• Labor negotiations: Negotiations specifically concerning labor and employment terms.
• Union negotiations: Negotiations involving a trade union.

Related Phrases

• Good-faith bargaining: The legal requirement for both parties in collective bargaining to meet and negotiate with a sincere desire to reach an agreement.
  • The law requires employers to engage in good-faith bargaining.
• Bargaining unit: A group of employees with a clear and identifiable community of interest who are represented by a union in collective bargaining.
  • The factory workers form a single bargaining unit.

Noun

1. negotiation between an employer and trade union