éthique de travail
The English phrase "work ethic" is translated into French as éthique de travail.
éthique de travail refers to a person's tendency to work hard at their job or duties. While this is a direct translation, you may also hear French speakers use the expression le sens du travail to describe an individual's professional drive or dedication.
Meaning: tendency to work hard at one's job or duties (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is a literal translation of "ethics of work", where éthique means ethics and de travail means of work.
How does it change in a sentence?
Because the noun éthique is feminine, you use the indefinite article une when saying "a work ethic" (une éthique de travail).
Did you know?
- The word travail has a much darker origin than just 'work', as it originally referred to 'suffering' or 'torture'. It stems from the Latin word for a 'torture device' made of three stakes.
- The French word travail is a linguistic relative of the English word 'travail', which specifically means painful or laborious effort.
- The plural form of travail was historically pronounced differently because of a linguistic process called 'vocalization'.
Examples in context
- Tu as une superbe éthique de travail.You have a great work ethic.Tatoeba #12495003 by always, translation #11698635 by Amastan
- Le succès professionnel est fortement lié à une solide éthique de travail.Professional success is strongly linked to a strong work ethic.
- On remarque l'éthique professionnelle exemplaire de cet employé.We can observe the exemplary professional work ethic of this employee.
- Son éthique de travail est impressionnante.His work ethic is impressive.
- Nous valorisons une forte éthique de travail.We value a strong work ethic.
Example conversation
Léa and Lucas are discussing a new colleague during a coffee break.
- LéaLucas, as-tu remarqué le nouveau ?Lucas, have you noticed the new guy?
- LucasOui, il a une excellente éthique de travail.Yes, he has an excellent work ethic.
- LéaC'est vrai, il finit toujours ses tâches tôt.It's true, he always finishes his tasks early.
- LucasIl est vraiment très sérieux.He is really very serious.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries de, travail, éthique, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
