Meaning
To put a lot of effort into one's work.
Cultural Background
In Mexico, 'trabajar duro' is often associated with the 'lucha' (struggle) of the working class. It is a term of pride. In Spain, while 'trabajar duro' is used, people also frequently say 'currárselo' (slang for working hard on something). Argentines might use 'laburar' (slang for work) instead of 'trabajar', so 'laburar duro' is common in informal settings.
Adverbial use
Remember that 'duro' doesn't change gender here. It's an adverb.
Avoid 'difícil'
Don't say 'trabajar difícil'. It sounds like you are working in a complex way, not a hard way.
Meaning
To put a lot of effort into one's work.
Adverbial use
Remember that 'duro' doesn't change gender here. It's an adverb.
Avoid 'difícil'
Don't say 'trabajar difícil'. It sounds like you are working in a complex way, not a hard way.
Use it in interviews
Employers love hearing 'Me gusta trabajar duro'. It shows a good attitude.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence.
Para tener éxito, debes ________ duro.
The phrase is 'trabajar duro'.
Which is correct?
Choose the natural way to say 'work hard'.
'Trabajar duro' is the standard collocation.
Match the phrase to its meaning.
Trabajar duro = ?
It means putting in effort.
Complete the dialogue.
A: ¿Cómo lograste el ascenso? B: Tuve que ________.
Hard work leads to promotions.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesPara tener éxito, debes ________ duro.
The phrase is 'trabajar duro'.
Choose the natural way to say 'work hard'.
'Trabajar duro' is the standard collocation.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
It means putting in effort.
A: ¿Cómo lograste el ascenso? B: Tuve que ________.
Hard work leads to promotions.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
8 questionsYes, but it sounds very formal. 'Trabajo duro' is much more natural.
No, you can use it for school, sports, or hobbies.
No, 'duro' is an adverb here, so it stays the same.
The opposite is 'ser perezoso' (to be lazy) or 'trabajar poco'.
No, it is standard Spanish.
Yes, it is very common in texts.
Because it modifies the verb, not a noun.
Yes, it is universally understood.
Related Phrases
Dar el máximo
synonymGive your maximum
Esforzarse mucho
similarTo make a great effort
Poner empeño
similarTo put in dedication
