posto di lavoro
Lemma: posto di lavoro
Translation: workplace; job; work place; place of employment (noun phrase)
Etymology: Compound of 'posto' (place) + 'di' (of) + 'lavoro' (work). 'Posto' derives from Latin 'positus', past participle of 'ponere' (to place), which shares roots with English words like 'position' and 'posit'. 'Lavoro' comes from Latin 'labor', which is the direct source of the English word 'labor'.
Example Usage
Ho trovato un nuovo posto di lavoro.
I found a new job.
Il mio posto di lavoro è vicino alla stazione.
My workplace is near the station.
La crisi economica ha causato la perdita di molti posti di lavoro.
The economic crisis has caused the loss of many jobs.
È importante avere un ambiente sano nel posto di lavoro.
It's important to have a healthy environment in the workplace.
Mnemonics
- 'Posto' sounds like 'post' in English, as in a position or posting. Think of your workplace as where you're 'posted' to work.
- 'Lavoro' shares roots with 'labor' - your 'posto di lavoro' is where you labor.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
In Italian culture, 'posto di lavoro' is a significant concept as employment stability is highly valued. The term is frequently used in discussions about the economy, labor rights, and social policies. Finding and maintaining a 'posto di lavoro fisso' (permanent job) is traditionally considered an important life achievement in Italian society.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Posto' alone means 'place' or 'seat', while 'posto di lavoro' specifically refers to a workplace or job.
This word:
Cerco un nuovo posto di lavoro nel settore informatico.
I'm looking for a new job in the IT sector.
Notes: In casual conversation, Italians might sometimes shorten 'posto di lavoro' to just 'posto', but the context usually makes it clear they're referring to employment.
Mnemonic: Think: 'posto di lavoro' has 'lavoro' (work) in it, so it's specifically about where you work, not just any place.
Explanation: 'Lavoro' means 'work' or 'job' in a general sense, while 'posto di lavoro' refers specifically to the physical location or position of employment.
Confused word:
Mi piace il mio lavoro ma è molto impegnativo.
I like my work but it's very demanding.
Notes: While 'lavoro' can sometimes be used interchangeably with 'posto di lavoro' in casual speech, 'posto di lavoro' more specifically refers to the employment position or workplace location.
Mnemonic: 'Posto di lavoro' includes 'posto' (place), so it emphasizes the location or position aspect of work.