iṣẹ́
The English word "work" is translated into Yoruba as iṣẹ́.
iṣẹ́ is a noun used to refer to a job, a specific task or the general concept of labor and employment.
Meaning: labour, employment, occupation, job (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The related verbal noun ṣiṣẹ́ (to work) is a combination of the verb ṣe (to do) and the noun iṣẹ́ (work), literally meaning "to do work".
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
iṣẹ́ functions as a noun. The related form ṣiṣẹ́ is an intransitive verb used to describe the act of performing a specific task.
Did you know?
- In some contexts, iṣẹ́ can be used to describe 'trouble' or 'problems' one has encountered, such as 'iṣẹ́ tuntun' meaning 'new trouble'.
- In Yoruba, the word iṣẹ́ can also refer to a 'miracle' or a 'deed' performed by a divine being, depending on the context of the sentence.
- There is a famous Yoruba proverb, iṣẹ́ l'òògùn ìṣẹ́, which translates to 'work is the antidote for poverty'.
Examples in context
- Iṣẹ́ tuntun kan wà.There is a new job.
- Iṣẹ́ rẹ dùn mọ́ mi.I like your work.
Example conversation
Femi and Yejide are discussing their careers.
- FemiYejide, báwo ni iṣẹ́ rẹ?Yejide, how is your work?
- YejideIṣẹ́ mi lọ́nà gidi.My job is going well.
- FemiṢé o fẹ́ iṣẹ́ rẹ?Do you like your job?
- YejideBẹ́ẹ̀ ni, mo fẹ́ rẹ̀.Yes, I like it.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “work” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
