backbreaking work
[ˈbækˌbreɪkɪŋ wɜːrk]
noun phrase
trabalho exaustivo
1. extremely hard, physically demanding labor that causes exhaustion and fatigue
The construction workers engaged in backbreaking work throughout the summer heat.
Os operários realizavam trabalho exaustivo durante o calor intenso do verão.
2. strenuous effort that requires tremendous physical or mental strain
Harvesting crops by hand is backbreaking work that requires patience and strength.
A colheita manual é um trabalho exaustivo que requer paciência e força.
This phrase is widely used in both American English and Brazilian Portuguese to describe demanding physical labor, historically associated with agricultural, construction, and manufacturing work. In Brazil, it reflects the importance of acknowledging the dignity and difficulty of manual labor. The expression has evolved to include mentally demanding work as well.
NYC Slang
back-breaker, killer job, grind
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