lavoro straordinario
Lemma: lavoro straordinario
Translation: overtime work; overtime; extra work (noun phrase)
Etymology: Compound of 'lavoro' (work) and 'straordinario' (extraordinary). 'Lavoro' derives from Latin 'labor' (toil, work, labor), which is also the source of English 'labor'. 'Straordinario' comes from Latin 'extraordinarius' (out of the ordinary, exceptional), from 'extra' (outside, beyond) + 'ordinarius' (orderly, regular), which gives us English 'extraordinary'. The phrase literally means 'extraordinary work' - work that goes beyond ordinary hours or duties.
Example Usage
Devo fare lavoro straordinario questa settimana per completare il progetto.
I have to work overtime this week to complete the project.
Il lavoro straordinario viene pagato il doppio.
Overtime work is paid double.
Non mi piace fare lavoro straordinario durante il weekend.
I don't like doing overtime work during the weekend.
Mnemonics
- 'Straordinario' sounds like 'extraordinary' - remember that overtime is 'extra-ordinary' work beyond normal hours.
- Think of 'lavoro straordinario' as 'labor that's extraordinary' - work that goes beyond the ordinary schedule.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
In Italian work culture, 'lavoro straordinario' is a common concept, especially in office environments. Italian labor laws regulate overtime work, with specific provisions for compensation. Many Italian workers refer to overtime simply as 'straordinari'. The concept is important in Italian workplace discussions about work-life balance.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'lavoro straordinario' specifically refers to overtime work, 'lavoro eccezionale' means 'exceptional work' in terms of quality or importance, not duration.
Confused word:
Ha svolto un lavoro eccezionale su questo progetto.
He did an exceptional job on this project.
Notes: The confusion arises because both terms contain the idea of something beyond the ordinary, but in different dimensions: time versus quality.
Mnemonic: 'Straordinario' relates to time (extra hours), while 'eccezionale' relates to excellence (exceptional quality).
Explanation: When used alone, 'straordinario' can be an adjective meaning 'extraordinary' or 'exceptional', not necessarily related to work hours.
Notes: The adjective 'straordinario' has a broader meaning than when it's used in the specific phrase 'lavoro straordinario'.
Mnemonic: Remember that 'lavoro straordinario' specifically refers to work hours, while 'straordinario' alone can describe anything exceptional.