Work Meaning and Definition

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Work

Work

Pronunciation

/wɜːrk/

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A work is a task, project, or activity that requires time, effort, and resources to complete.

Examples

1. “She spent most of her day at work, trying to meet the deadline.”

2. “He’s been working on his novel for years, but it’s still not finished.”

Synonyms

1. Task

2. Project

3. Activity

Antonyms

1. Leisure

2. Hobby

Additional Information

Work is a vital part of human life, as it allows individuals to earn a living, develop their skills, and contribute to society. There are many types of work, including paid employment, volunteering, and entrepreneurship. The concept of work has evolved over time, with changes in technology, globalization, and societal values.

Some common types of work include office work, manual labor, creative work, and intellectual work. Work can be fulfilling and rewarding, but it can also be challenging and demanding. It’s essential to find a balance between work and other aspects of life, such as relationships, health, and recreation.

The type of work people do often depends on their skills, education, and experience. Some people may prefer routine work, while others may prefer creative or dynamic work. The work environment can also impact job satisfaction, with factors such as work-life balance, communication, and teamwork influencing overall job happiness.

The impact of work on personal and societal well-being is significant. Work can provide a sense of purpose, self-esteem, and financial security, but it can also lead to stress, burnout, and mental health issues. To promote healthy work habits, many organizations prioritize employee well-being, offer flexible work arrangements, and provide training and development opportunities.

Finally, work is essential for economic growth and development. As people work, they create value, innovate, and contribute to the production of goods and services. The quality of work can also impact the quality of life, with better working conditions, fair wages, and social security benefits leading to improved overall well-being.

Etymology

The word “work” comes from Old English “weorc,” meaning task, labor, or activity. It has evolved to encompass various shades of meaning, including occupation, job, and creative activity.

Usage Notes

When using the word “work,” remember that it can refer to various tasks, projects, or activities, both paid and unpaid. Be specific when describing the type of work you’re referring to, and avoid ambiguity by using clear language.

Cultural References

The concept of work has been depicted in many cultural and artistic works, such as Thomas Hardy’s novel “The Mayor of Casterbridge,” which explores the struggles of rural laborers. The film “9 to 5” satirizes the challenges of office work.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Some idiomatic expressions featuring the word “work” include:

  • work for the man (to work for someone else)
  • work for keeps (to work for a living)
  • work from home (to work remotely)
  • work in progress (to describe an ongoing project or activity)

Related Words or Phrases

Words and phrases closely related to “work” include:

  • job
  • occupation
  • project
  • task
  • employee
  • employer

Collocations

Common collocations with the term “work” include:

  • work hard
  • work together
  • work efficiently
  • work smart

Frequency of Use

The word “work” is commonly used in modern language, particularly in the context of employment, occupations, and personal projects.

Common Misspellings

Some common misspellings and variations of the word “work” include:

  • worke
  • werk
  • woek

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