obair — meaning in English: work

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aigne

ar ais

tairgse

obair

traein

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers use the word 'obair' in various contexts, such as discussing job responsibilities or speaking about tasks needed to be completed. For instance, someone might say 'Tá obair mhór ar siúl anseo' ('There is a big job happening here') when talking about a project at work.

Synonyms & nuances

'Obair' is commonly used to refer to work in a general sense, while synonyms like 'tasc' (task) or 'gníomhaíocht' (activity) imply more specific aspects of work. You might choose 'obair' when discussing broader job functions, whereas 'tasc' could be used for particular assignments.

Culture

The word 'obair' comes from the Old Irish term 'obra', which also means 'work' and reflects the strong emphasis on community and collective effort in Irish culture. Historically, work in Ireland has not only been about individual tasks but often involved family and communal contributions, especially in farming and craftsmanship.

FAQ

Q.What is the meaning of the Irish word 'obair'?

'Obair' translates to 'work' in English and is used in various contexts involving tasks, employment, or activities that require effort.

Q.How do you use 'obair' in a sentence?

You can use 'obair' in sentences like 'Tá an obair críochnaithe' ('The work is finished') or 'An bhfuil tú ag obair inniu?' ('Are you working today?') to convey everyday work scenarios.

Q.Are there any common mistakes with the word 'obair'?

One common mistake is confusing 'obair' with 'tasc'. Remember that 'obair' refers to the general concept of work, while 'tasc' is for specific tasks. Use them accordingly to avoid confusion.

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Irish Vocabulary