geh wieder an die Arbeit
The English phrase "get back to work" can be translated into German as geh wieder an die Arbeit.
This phrase is a command used to tell someone to return to their professional tasks after a break or distraction.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase geh wieder an die Arbeit literally means "go again to the work", consisting of geh (go), wieder (again), an die (to the) and Arbeit (work).
Which one should you use?
Other forms exist depending on the tone and specific intent. For instance, Komm endlich wieder an die Arbeit. translates to "come on, get back to work" and Hör auf zu trödeln und arbeite weiter. translates to "stop procrastinating and keep working".
Did you know?
- The word Arbeit shares an ancient root with the English word 'orphan', both tracing back to a term for a servant or someone without family protection.
- While geh wieder an die Arbeit is a command, German speakers often use the word Mahlzeit as a greeting during the midday break before returning to work.
- German has a specific word Kaffeekränzchen for a social coffee circle, which is the kind of distraction that leads to being told geh wieder an die Arbeit.
Examples in context
- Gehen Sie zurück zur Arbeit, bitte. Wir haben noch viel zu erledigen.Get back to work, please. We still have a lot to finish.
- Komm endlich wieder an die Arbeit! Die Deadlines stehen vor der Tür.Come on, get back to work! Deadlines are approaching.
- Geh wieder an die Arbeit, wir haben viel zu tun.Get back to work, we have a lot to do.
- Geh wieder an die Arbeit, die Pause ist vorbei.Get back to work, the break is over.
- Jetzt geh wieder an die Arbeit!Now get back to work!
Example conversation
A manager is telling an employee to stop chatting and return to his tasks.
- LauraFelix, geh wieder an die Arbeit.Felix, get back to work.
- FelixJa, ich mache mich sofort daran.Yes, I'll get on it immediately.
- LauraDu hast heute viel vor.You have a lot planned for today.
- FelixDas stimmt, ich beeile mich.That's true, I'll hurry.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Arbeit, an, die, wieder, CC BY-SA 4.0.
