Greetings! Are you looking to learn how to say “get to work” in Chinese? You’ve come to the right place. Whether you want to communicate formally or casually, this comprehensive guide will provide you with various ways to express this phrase. We’ll also include helpful tips, examples, and regional variations if necessary. So, let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Get to Work” in Chinese
If you wish to convey a formal tone while saying “get to work,” here are a few phrases you can use:
1. 上班 (shàngbān)
The most common and straightforward way to say “get to work” in Chinese is by using the phrase “上班” (shàngbān). This phrase is widely understood and widely used in all regions of China. It can be used in various situations, such as instructing, reminding, or encouraging someone to start their work.
Example: 老板让我们每天早上九点上班。 (Lǎobǎn ràng wǒmen měitiān zǎoshang jiǔ diǎn shàngbān.)
Translation: The boss asks us to start work every day at 9 a.m.
2. 开始工作 (kāishǐ gōngzuò)
If you want to emphasize the action of starting work, you can use the phrase “开始工作” (kāishǐ gōngzuò). This phrase is slightly more formal than “上班” (shàngbān) and indicates the beginning of work tasks specifically.
Example: 我们应该早点开始工作。 (Wǒmen yīnggāi zǎo diǎn kāishǐ gōngzuò.)
Translation: We should start working early.
Informal Ways to Say “Get to Work” in Chinese
Now, let’s explore some informal ways to say “get to work” in Chinese. These phrases will be more suitable for casual conversations among friends, family, or colleagues.
1. 动起来 (dòng qǐlái)
If you want to motivate or urge someone to get moving and start their work, you can use the phrase “动起来” (dòng qǐlái). This phrase is commonly used in colloquial Chinese and can be translated as “get moving” or “get going.”
Example: 别再拖延了，动起来开始工作吧！ (Bié zài tuōyán le, dòng qǐlái kāishǐ gōngzuò ba!)
Translation: Stop procrastinating, get moving, and start working!
2. 抓紧时间 (zhuājǐn shíjiān)
To express the urgency of getting to work, you can use the phrase “抓紧时间” (zhuājǐn shíjiān). This phrase literally means “seize the time” and is commonly used to encourage someone to make the most of their time and start working immediately.
Example: 快点抓紧时间，我们要赶上进度！ (Kuài diǎn zhuājǐn shíjiān, wǒmen yào gǎnshàng jìndù!)
Translation: Hurry up and seize the time, we need to catch up with the progress!
Regional Variations
Chinese is a diverse language spoken by different communities across various regions. While the phrases mentioned above are widely understood and used in most regions, there might be slight regional variations in certain areas. Here’s an example:
1. 打点儿工 (dǎ diǎn ér gōng) – Beijing Dialect
In Beijing dialect, people may use the phrase “打点儿工” (dǎ diǎn ér gōng), which translates to “start working” or “get to work.” This phrase is unique to the Beijing region and showcases the dialect’s charm.
Example: 咱们赶紧打点儿工吧！别让老板等着！ (Zánmen gǎnjǐn dǎ diǎn ér gōng ba! Bié ràng lǎobǎn děng zhe!)
Translation: Let’s quickly start working! Don’t make the boss wait!
Note: While it’s interesting to know these regional variations, it’s essential to understand that they might not be universally understood by all Chinese speakers.
Final Words
Congratulations! You’ve learned several ways to say “get to work” in Chinese, both formally and informally. Remember to adapt your choice of phrases based on the context and the relationship with the person you’re speaking to. Whether you prefer the formal tone of “上班” (shàngbān) or the informal energy of “动起来” (dòng qǐlái), you’ll now be able to express yourself confidently in Chinese.
Keep practicing these phrases in conversations, and don’t be afraid to ask native Chinese speakers for guidance. With dedication and perseverance, you’ll become fluent in the language and impress those around you.
Happy learning and best of luck with your Chinese language journey!
