¡Hola! Are you looking to expand your Spanish vocabulary? Knowing how to say “work on” in Spanish can greatly enhance your conversational skills and professional communication. In this guide, we will explore different ways to express this phrase in both formal and informal settings. Additionally, we’ll provide you with various tips, examples, and a glimpse into regional variations. So, ¡vamos! (Let’s go!)
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions
When it comes to formal situations, such as business meetings, interviews, or academic environments, it’s crucial to use appropriate language. Here are a few formal expressions that can convey the meaning of “work on” in Spanish:
1. Trabajar en
The most common and versatile way to say “work on” in Spanish is “trabajar en.” This expression is widely used across different Hispanic countries and can be easily understood by native speakers in various contexts. Take a look at some examples:
– Necesito trabajar en este informe antes de la reunión. (I need to work on this report before the meeting.)
– Estamos trabajando en un proyecto importante. (We are working on an important project.)
– No puedo salir hoy, tengo mucho trabajo en la oficina. (I can’t go out today, I have a lot of work at the office.)
2. Realizar
Another formal expression to convey the idea of “working on” is “realizar.” Although it can also mean “to perform” or “to carry out,” it is commonly used to describe ongoing work or tasks. Consider the following examples:
– Estoy realizando un estudio exhaustivo sobre el cambio climático. (I am working on an extensive study about climate change.)
– La empresa está realizando una auditoría interna. (The company is working on an internal audit.)
– Vamos a realizar algunas mejoras en el sistema. (We are going to work on some improvements to the system.)
Informal Expressions
Moving on to more informal situations, where a relaxed or casual tone is appropriate, there are several expressions commonly used among friends or in everyday conversations. Here are a few ways to say “work on” informally in Spanish:
1. Meterle mano a
The phrase “meterle mano a” is a colloquial, friendly expression used in many Spanish-speaking countries. It has a stronger connotation of actively engaging with a task or project. Check out these examples:
– Mañana le voy a meter mano al jardín. (Tomorrow, I’m going to work on the garden.)
– ¿Cuándo piensas meterle mano a ese problema? (When do you plan to work on that problem?)
– Vamos, ¡hay que meterle mano al desorden! (Come on, we need to work on the mess!)
2. Echarle ganas a
To express dedication or putting effort into something, you can use the phrase “echarle ganas a.” This informal expression is commonly used in Latin American countries and can be translated as “to put one’s heart into.” Let’s see it in action:
– Juan está echándole ganas a su nuevo proyecto. (Juan is working hard on his new project.)
– Si le echas ganas a tus estudios, tendrás éxito. (If you put effort into your studies, you will succeed.)
– Vamos, chicos, echemos ganas a este trabajo. (Come on, guys, let’s work hard on this task.)
Regional Variations
While the expressions mentioned above are widely understood throughout the Spanish-speaking world, it’s important to note that there might be regional variations in different countries or even within regions. Here are a couple of examples:
1. Laburar
In some parts of Latin America, particularly in Argentina and Uruguay, people use the verb “laburar” as a slang term for “to work.” This informal expression may not be appropriate in all situations, but it’s worth mentioning as a regional variation:
– ¿En qué estás laburando ahora? (What are you working on now?)
– Mis amigos están laburando en una nueva banda de música. (My friends are working on a new band.)
2. Janguear
In some parts of the Caribbean, specifically Puerto Rico, “janguear” is a colloquial term used to mean “to work” or “to do a job.” While it may not be as widely understood outside of Puerto Rico, it provides insights into regional variations within the Spanish language:
– Tengo que janguear hasta tarde esta noche. (I have to work until late tonight.)
– Mi hermano está jangueando en un restaurante. (My brother is working at a restaurant.)
Summary
You’ve now discovered a range of expressions to convey the concept of “working on” in Spanish. In formal situations, “trabajar en” and “realizar” are the most commonly used phrases. However, when it comes to informal settings, “meterle mano a” and “echarle ganas a” are more suitable. Remember to consider regional variations like “laburar” in Argentina and Uruguay, or “janguear” in Puerto Rico. Expanding your vocabulary with these phrases will undoubtedly help you navigate conversations and convey your intentions effectively in Spanish.
¡Muy bien! (Well done!) Now, it’s time to practice incorporating these expressions into your everyday conversations. Keep working on your Spanish skills, and soon you’ll feel confident and fluent in no time. ¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)
