What does it mean word for word?
The question is derived from the verb trabajar, which means "to work".
Which one should you use?
The default form ¿Trabajas? is the informal version. Other variations include ¿Tienes trabajo?, which translates to "Do you have work?" and the more formal ¿Tiene empleo?, which translates to "Do you have employment?"
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, you may use the second-person plural form ¿Trabajáis? to ask "do you all work?" in an informal context.
How does it change in a sentence?
To ask "do you work?" in a formal setting, use the third-person singular form of the verb alongside the pronoun usted, as in ¿Trabaja usted?
When do people say it?
If someone asks you this question, a common affirmative response is Sí, trabajo (Yes, I work), while a common negative response is No, no trabajo (No, I don't work).
Did you know?
- The word trabajo comes from the Latin word tripalium, which was a three-pronged instrument used for torture.
- The verb trabajar is used in a unique way to describe the 'work' of a machine or an organ, such as the heart, which English speakers usually describe as 'functioning' or 'beating'.
- If you ask a person ¿Trabajas? in a social setting, they might interpret it as asking if they are currently busy or performing a task, rather than inquiring about their employment status.
Examples in context
- Buenos días señor/ señora. ¿Trabaja usted?Good morning, sir/madam. Do you work?
- Disculpe, ¿tiene empleo en este lugar?Excuse me, do you work at this place?
- Oye, ¿trabajas?Hey, do you work?
Example conversation
Mateo and María are meeting for the first time.
- MateoHola, María. ¿Trabajas?Hi, María. Do you work?
- MaríaSí, trabajo en un hospital.Yes, I work in a hospital.
- Mateo¡Qué bien! ¿Eres doctora?That's great! Are you a doctor?
- MaríaNo, soy enfermera.No, I am a nurse.
