tuffarsi nel lavoro
Lemma: tuffarsi nel lavoro
Translation: to throw oneself into work; to immerse oneself in work; to bury oneself in work (idiom)
Etymology: This Italian idiom combines 'tuffarsi' (to dive, to plunge) with 'nel lavoro' (into work). The verb 'tuffarsi' comes from 'tuffo' (dive, plunge), which derives from the Latin 'tufus', related to the sound of something falling into water. The metaphor compares intense dedication to work with the physical act of diving into water - a complete immersion.
Example Usage
Dopo la rottura con la sua fidanzata, si è tuffato nel lavoro per non pensarci.
After breaking up with his girlfriend, he threw himself into work to avoid thinking about it.
Per completare il progetto in tempo, dovremo tuffarci nel lavoro senza distrazioni.
To complete the project on time, we'll need to immerse ourselves in work without distractions.
Mi tuffo nel lavoro ogni volta che sono stressato.
I bury myself in work whenever I'm stressed.
Mnemonics
- Imagine someone literally diving ('tuffarsi') into a pool filled with paperwork and office supplies.
- Think of 'tough' (sounds like 'tuff-') work - when work gets tough, you dive right in.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This expression reflects the Italian work ethic that values dedication and commitment. It's commonly used in professional contexts to describe someone who uses work as a distraction from personal problems or who is particularly dedicated to their profession.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'tuffarsi nel lavoro' implies voluntarily immersing oneself in work, 'affogare nel lavoro' (to drown in work) suggests being overwhelmed by too much work, often involuntarily.
This word:
Mi tuffo nel lavoro per dimenticare i problemi.
I throw myself into work to forget my problems.
Confused word:
Sto affogando nel lavoro, ho troppe scadenze questa settimana.
I'm drowning in work, I have too many deadlines this week.
Notes: The difference is about agency and control - 'tuffarsi' implies choice and purpose, while 'affogare' suggests being overwhelmed.
Mnemonic: Diving (tuffarsi) is voluntary; drowning (affogare) is not.