In economic terms, what does 'full-employment' refer to?

Full employment in economic terms refers to a situation where all available resources are employed efficiently, particularly in the context of labor. It does not imply a scenario of zero unemployment; rather, it acknowledges that there will always be some level of unemployment due to factors such as job transitions, changes in market conditions, and cyclical variations. Therefore, full employment indicates that the economy is utilizing its labor force to its maximum potential without incurring the costs associated with excessive unemployment.

This concept is closely tied to the idea of potential GDP, where the economy operates at a level where all available resources are being used efficiently, thereby maximizing production capacity and contributing to economic growth. In essence, full employment means achieving the highest level of employment that is sustainable without triggering inflation. This understanding underscores the significance of resource allocation and economic efficiency in the overall functioning of the economy.