labour - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
labour Word Meanings
- work, especially hard physical work
- the process of childbirth
- effort or exertion toward a goal
labour Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
labour Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈleɪ.bə/
US
/ˈleɪ.bər/
labour Word Etymology
(a) 'labour' comes from 'labour' (Old French) → 'labor' (Latin) from 'laborare' (to work). (b) This Latin root relates to effort and toil, tracing back to ancient Rome. (c) Imagine a farmer plowing a field, sweating under the sun, embodying hard work, symbolizing both physical effort and the creative act of bringing forth life.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I roll up my sleeves, square my shoulders, and start to move the heavy box across the room. I push it along the floor, counting breaths as the muscles burn and the mind stays steady. The moment feels like labour, a slow, stubborn stretch of effort where every small adjustment matters and the finish line moves a little closer. When the box settles into place, I let out a breath and know the work is done, for now.
Real Context
Labour is the British spelling of a word that covers three related ideas. First, it means work, especially physical or sustained effort over time. Second, it refers to the act of childbirth, where a mother goes through labour before the baby is born. Third, labour can describe exertion toward a goal, such as the labour required to complete a project or improve a skill. The word has historical roots in Old French and Latin, and in modern usage it often contrasts with the American spelling labor. In everyday speech you might talk about workers’ labour, labour pains, or the amount of labour a task requires.
Usage Reminders
- Use labour for British English and labor for American English.
- For childbirth, keep labour; for general work, use labour or labor depending on the region.
- Labour can be uncountable (labour is key to progress) or countable (a hard labour is required).
- Common collocations include labour market, hard labour, and labour pains.
- Avoid translating literally from your language; learn the English phrases in context.
Common Misconceptions
- Labour only means childbirth; it also means general work or effort.
- British labour vs American labor is just a spelling difference, not a usage difference.
- To labour is only a noun; it can be a verb too.
- Labour cannot be used with abstract tasks; it is for concrete effort alone.
- Directly translating from non-English languages often misuses phrases like 'labour pains' or 'labour market'.
Thinking Differences
British English uses labour for work and childbirth, while American English uses labor; lean into context to decide spelling and sense.
Learning Tips
- Compare sentences with labour and labor in context to notice regional usage.
- Practice phrases: labour market, hard labour, labour pains, and to labour over a task.
- Keep a small glossary of contexts: childbirth, work, and effort.
- Pay attention to spelling in writing tasks; British vs American variants matter.
- Read aloud to feel the rhythm and collocations common with labour.
- Watch subtitles or listen for cues about context when you hear 'labour'.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'labour'?
A.To work hard physically or mentally
B.A term used for planting flowers
C.A description of a sweet dish
D.A type of painting
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correct sentence that uses 'labour'.
A.They put in a lot of labour to complete the project on time.
B.He decided to labour his new car into the garage.
C.She enjoys the labour on her vacation.
D.The labour was delicious at the feast.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'labour'?
A.Discovery
B.Celebration
C.Effort
D.Joy
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'labour'?
A.Rest
B.Exercise
C.Work
D.Activity
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario of 'labour'?
A.Many people take a break after a long day's work.
B.Workers in the field serve the harvest during the busy season.
C.She is preparing for a big exam and studying diligently.
D.The children are playing outside instead of doing chores.
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