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Il lavoro è pesante.

Il lavoro è pesante.
The work is heavy.
FromLesson 11inHardcore Italian

Breakdown of Il lavoro è pesante.

essere
to be
pesante
heavy
il lavoro
the work

Questions & Answers about Il lavoro è pesante.

What does the definite article il indicate in this sentence?
Il is the masculine singular definite article in Italian—equivalent to "the" in English. It signals that lavoro (work/job) is a specific and known entity in the context.
How does the adjective pesante agree with the noun lavoro?
In Italian, adjectives must match the noun they describe in gender and number. Here, lavoro is masculine and singular, and pesante is used in the appropriate form. Note that pesante does not change form between masculine and feminine in the singular, which can simplify your learning.
What is the overall grammatical structure of Il lavoro è pesante?
This sentence follows a straightforward construction: subject + linking verb + predicate adjective. Il lavoro is the subject, è is the linking verb (from essere, meaning "is"), and pesante serves as the predicate adjective describing the subject.
Can lavoro be translated as both "work" and "job," and how do I choose the correct interpretation?
Yes, lavoro can mean either "work" or "job" depending on context. In Il lavoro è pesante, if the context involves describing the nature of one’s occupation, "job" might be appropriate. If it refers to tasks or duties in a broader sense, "work" could be better. The surrounding context usually helps determine the best translation.
Is pesante meant to be taken literally as "physically heavy," or could it have a figurative sense?
Pesante can be interpreted both ways. Literally, it means "heavy" in terms of weight. Figuratively, it might suggest that the work is demanding, exhausting, or emotionally burdensome. Without additional context, both interpretations are possible, so consider any extra clues from conversation or text to decide on the nuance intended.
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