工作
How to Understand
工作 (gōng zuò) is the most common Chinese word for 'work' as a noun, referring to tasks performed for a living or duties assigned to someone. It can also mean 'job' or 'occupation,' and is often used in contexts related to employment or daily responsibilities.
The character 工 (gōng) originally meant 'work' or 'labor,' while 作 (zuò) means 'to do' or 'to make.' Together, they form a compound that emphasizes the act of performing tasks, especially in a structured or professional setting.
工作 is widely used in everyday conversations, job interviews, and formal documents. In Chinese culture, work is highly valued, and the term often reflects dedication, effort, and responsibility. It can also be part of phrases like 找工作 (zhǎo gōng zuò), meaning 'to find a job,' or 工作时间 (gōng zuò shí jiān), meaning 'working hours.'