trabalhar — meaning in English: to work

Usage

Native speakers use the word 'trabalhar' in a variety of professional settings, such as during business meetings, job interviews, or even casual conversations about their day. For example, a colleague might ask, 'Você trabalha aqui todos os dias?' meaning 'Do you work here every day?'

Synonyms & nuances

'Trabalhar' primarily means 'to work,' but it can be nuanced by words like 'empregar' (to employ) or 'atuar' (to act). While 'empregar' focuses on the employment aspect, 'trabalhar' emphasizes the act of working itself, making it more versatile in everyday conversation.

Culture

'Trabalhar' comes from the Latin word 'tripaliare,' which means 'to torment' or 'to torture.' This etymology reflects historical perspectives on labor, suggesting that work was often viewed as a burden. Interestingly, in Brazilian culture, the work ethic is deeply ingrained, and there's a saying, 'Quem não trabalha não come,' meaning 'Those who do not work do not eat.'

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