trabajador
/tɾabaxaˈdoɾ/
The English phrase 'hard working' is translated into Spanish as trabajador.
trabajador is a common way to express that someone is hard working. While trabajador is the standard term, you might use esforzado to emphasize the exertion and effort a person puts in or dedicado to imply that someone is specifically devoted and committed to their work.
What does it mean word for word?
The word trabajador is derived from the verb trabajar (to work) combined with the suffix -dor, which denotes a person or an agent who performs an action, literally meaning 'worker'.
Which one should you use?
Depending on the context, you may choose different words: esforzado focuses on the level of effort exerted, while dedicado focuses on devotion and commitment to a task.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Argentina, the word laburante is used to describe a diligent and industrious worker.
How does it change in a sentence?
The adjective changes based on gender and number: use trabajadora when describing a female subject, trabajadores for a group of men or a mixed-gender group and trabajadoras for a group consisting only of women.
How do you pronounce it?
/tɾabaxaˈdoɾ/
Did you know?
- The verb trabajar is linked to the Latin word 'tripalium', which was a three-staked instrument used for torture. This connection suggests that the very concept of 'work' is historically rooted in suffering or hardship.
- In Argentina, the slang term laburante is used instead of trabajador. This comes from the Italian word lavoro, reflecting the heavy Italian immigration to the region.
- In some Spanish dialects, calling someone muy trabajador can be used ironically to describe someone who is actually avoiding their duties.
Examples in context
- Mary es una mujer trabajadora.Mary is a very hard-working woman.This sentence shows how to use the feminine form trabajadora for the word trabajador.Tatoeba #6760818 by swyter, translation #5850617 by CK
- Los chinos son grandes trabajadores.The Chinese are a hard-working people.This sentence demonstrates the masculine plural form trabajadores of trabajador.Tatoeba #863158 by inmachan, translation #277515 by CN
- Mi padre es una persona trabajadora, honrada y modesta.My father is a hard-working, straightforward, and modest person.This sentence shows the use of the feminine form trabajadora within a list of traits.Tatoeba #1870416 by marcelostockle, translation #425110 by FeuDRenais
- María es una trabajadora muy dedicada y esforzada en su profesión.María is a very dedicated and hard-working professional.
- Pablo es un estudiante esforzado que siempre se esfuerza al máximo en sus estudios.Pablo is a hard-working student who always gives his utmost effort in his studies.
- El equipo de trabajo está conformado por personas dedicadas y apasionadas por su labor.The team is composed of dedicated and passionate individuals in their work.
- Javier es un currante incansable, siempre está trabajando en algo.Javier is an tireless hard worker, he's always working on something.
- Carlos es un chico cachas y muy trabajador. Siempre está dispuesto a ayudar.Carlos is a strong and hard-working guy, he's always willing to help.
- 3 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Sofía and Javier are talking about a new colleague at the office.
- Sofía¿Qué piensas de nuestro nuevo compañero?What do you think of our new colleague?
- JavierEs un hombre muy trabajador.He is a very hard working man.
- SofíaSí, es un buen trabajador.Yes, he is a good worker.
- JavierMe alegra que sea tan dedicado.I am glad he is so dedicated.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry trabajador, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries trabajador, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
