In German
Arbeit
Meaning: work
Formal or informal? “Arbeit” is work in the sense of a job or labour. For a piece of art or a creative work, the word is “Werk”.
Example sentences
IchhabeheutevielArbeit.
I have a lot of work today.
DieArbeitbeginntumneun.
Work starts at nine.
ErgehtjedenTagzurArbeit.
He goes to work every day.
Grammar note
“Die Arbeit” is feminine, so it takes “die” and “eine”. The plural is “die Arbeiten”. After “zu” (to) the dative is “zur Arbeit” (to work).
Common mistake
Don't use “Werk” for your job. “Werk” means an artwork, a book or a factory. For job and labour, use “Arbeit”.
Quick check
Which German word means “work” as in a job?
More words on this topic
Keep learning German
Practise it in a lesson →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between “Arbeit” and “Werk”?
“Arbeit” is work as a job or effort, while “Werk” is a creative work or a factory.
How do you say “go to work” in German?
“Zur Arbeit gehen”, using the contraction “zur” for “zu der”.