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Dictionary-enhanced synonyms

Synonyms for “Labor” — 7 Other Ways to Say It

Hard work or effort; or the people who work in jobs and factories (as a group or class).

IPA: /ˈleɪbər/Level: B1Register: formalPart of speech: noun

Meanings of Labor — Pick the Sense You Need

Labor has 2 common meanings. The synonyms below are grouped by meaning so you can jump straight to the sense you need.

  1. Meaning #1 as a noun

    Hard work or effort; or the people who work in jobs and factories (as a group or class).

  2. Meaning #2 as a noun

    The process a woman goes through when giving birth to a baby.

How to Pronounce Labor

IPA: /ˈleɪbər/ Stress: Oo

Two syllables: LAY-bor. First syllable has long /eɪ/ vowel like 'ay', second has schwa /ər/. Stress on first syllable.

Full pronunciation guide for labor →

4 Synonyms for Labor (Meaning #1 — as a noun)

These synonyms work when you use labor as a noun. Meaning: Hard work or effort; or the people who work in jobs and factories (as a group or class).

work

/wɜːrk/
noun A1

The job you do and tasks you must complete.

Example: I have a lot of work to do today.

effort

/ˈɛfərt/
noun A2

The work and energy you use to try to do or achieve something.

Example: Learning a new language requires a lot of effort.

task

/tɑːsk/
noun A1

Work you need to finish.

Example: My task is to clean the kitchen.

3 Synonyms for Labor (Meaning #2 — as a noun)

These synonyms work when you use labor as a noun. Meaning: The process a woman goes through when giving birth to a baby.

Smart Synonyms for Labor — When to Use Each

work

for general activity requiring effort

toil

for hard grueling work over time

effort

for energy and strength used in action

Antonyms of Labor — Opposite Words

How to Use Labor and Its Synonyms in Sentences

  • The construction project required months of labor from the team. B1
  • Labor disputes between workers and management can be serious. B1
  • Hard labor built the ancient monuments over many centuries. B2
  • She went into labor early in the morning. B1
  • The doctor monitored her labor progress throughout the night. B2

Frequently Asked Questions About Synonyms of Labor

What is another word for "labor"?

Common synonyms for "labor" include: work, effort, toil, task, childbirth.

What can I say instead of "labor"?

Try one of these alternatives: work, effort, toil, task, childbirth. Pick the synonym whose register and meaning fits your sentence — see the cards above for definitions and examples.

Is "labor" formal or informal?

"labor" is generally used in formal contexts. Use it in writing, business, and academic settings.

When should I use "labor" instead of "work"?

Use "labor" when you want to keep the exact nuance shown in the meaning section above; switch to "work" when you need a different register, level, or shade of meaning. Compare the cards above to decide.

What are the antonyms of "labor"?

Words with the opposite meaning of "labor" include: rest, leisure.

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