Inklingo

How to Say "labor" in Spanish

English → Spanish

obreros

/oh-BREH-rohs//oˈβɾeɾos/

adjectiveB1general
Use 'obreros' when referring to labor unions, labor movements, or the working class in a collective sense.
A group of people standing together in solidarity, holding a large blank banner.

Examples

Los sindicatos obreros exigen mejores salarios.

The labor unions demand better salaries.

Viven en barrios obreros a las afueras de la ciudad.

They live in working-class neighborhoods on the outskirts of the city.

Adjective Agreement

This version of the word must match the thing it's describing. Since 'obreros' is plural and masculine, the thing it describes (like 'sindicatos') must also be plural and masculine.

sudor

soo-DOR/suˈðoɾ/

nounB1general
Use 'sudor' to describe the physical exertion or hard work involved in a task, often implying effort and sweat.
A simple storybook illustration of a person straining while digging vigorously into brown soil with a silver shovel, representing hard work or toil.

Examples

Con mucho sudor y dedicación, lograron terminar el proyecto a tiempo.

With much toil and dedication, they managed to finish the project on time.

La construcción de ese edificio costó mucho sudor a los obreros.

The construction of that building cost the workers a lot of hard work.

Figurative Use

This meaning uses 'sudor' as a metaphor for intense effort, reflecting the physical exertion that causes sweating. It’s often used in conjunction with verbs like 'costar' (to cost) or 'conseguir' (to achieve).

Obreros vs. Sudor

Learners often confuse 'obreros' and 'sudor' because both relate to work. Remember that 'obreros' usually refers to groups or movements of workers, while 'sudor' describes the physical effort of the work itself.

Related Translations

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