What factor defines someone as unemployed?

The definition of unemployment is centered on individuals who are actively seeking work but are unable to find a job. Specifically, a person is classified as unemployed if they do not have a job but are available for work and have made specific efforts to find employment in the recent past. This includes those who are temporarily laid off and are waiting to be recalled to their jobs.

In this context, being actively engaged in the job search process or facing temporary layoffs makes someone eligible to be counted as unemployed. This distinction is important because it reflects the true state of the labor market and helps gauge economic health.

The other options focus on individuals who are either not part of the labor force, currently employed, or working part-time, which do not align with the criteria used to define unemployment. Individuals not participating in the labor force aren't counted as unemployed because they aren't actively seeking work, while those currently employed full-time or part-time are considered employed, even if they may prefer more hours.