Trade union

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What it really means

An organisation that represents workers and negotiates with employers over pay and conditions. In the UK you have the legal right to join one, and it can support you in a dispute. Membership usually costs a small monthly fee.

Chinese explanation

工会（trade union）：代表工人、就工资和工作条件与雇主谈判的组织。在英国你有依法加入的权利，遇到纠纷时它能为你提供支持。会员通常每月缴一小笔会费。

Example conversation

A: Should I join the union? B: Many do — they help if there's ever a problem with pay or conditions.

A：我该加入工会吗？ B：很多人加——工资或条件出问题时他们能帮上忙。

What you could say back

“Which union covers this industry?”

Related phrases

Grievance ACAS Disciplinary

Official sources

Rules and amounts change — confirm important details with the official source.

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Reviewed by the UK Decoded editorial team · Last checked 24 July 2026 · Report a mistake