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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'to work' with 工作 (gōngzuò)

    Actions & Events

    Structure

    Subject + 工作 / Subject + 的 + 工作

    Explanation

    工作 (gōngzuò) functions as both a verb meaning "to work" and a noun meaning "work" or "job." As a verb, it describes the act of performing labor or duties. It is one of the most essential vocabulary words in Chinese, appearing in everyday conversation, formal contexts, and professional settings.

    Examples

    • 我妈妈在一家医院工作。

      Wǒ māma zài yì jiā yīyuàn gōngzuò.

      My mom works at a hospital.

    • 他每天工作十个小时,真的太辛苦了。

      Tā měi tiān gōngzuò shí gè xiǎoshí, zhēn de tài xīnkǔ le.

      He works ten hours every day — it's really exhausting.

    • 你周末还要工作吗?

      Nǐ zhōumò hái yào gōngzuò ma?

      Do you still have to work on weekends?

    Expressing 'to work' with 工作 (gōngzuò) | Chinese Grammar