desks

[/dɛsks/]
nounpl: desks
mesas, carteiras, secretárias
1. Pieces of furniture with a flat surface used for writing, working, or studying, typically having drawers or compartments for storage
The students sat at their desks during the exam.
Os alunos sentaram-se nas suas carteiras durante a prova.
2. Counters or service points in offices, hotels, or other establishments where business is conducted
I approached the reception desk to check in.
Aproximei-me da recepção para fazer o check-in.
3. Workstations or offices where specific administrative or professional work is performed
She works at the customer service desk.
Ela trabalha no atendimento ao cliente.
In Brazil, the word 'carteira' is predominantly used in educational contexts, while 'mesa' is more general. In corporate environments, 'secretária' or 'mesa de trabalho' is preferred. In the USA, desks are central to both school and office culture, reflecting the importance of individual workspaces in American professional life.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
tablesworkstationscountersbureaus

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
mesas
Most common term for general desks
General Brazilian
carteiras
Specifically used for school desks or student desks
General Brazilian
secretárias
Used for office desks or writing desks
Portugal
secretárias
Primary term for office desks in European Portuguese

Related Words

chairofficeworkspacefurnituredrawerstationery

Related Idioms & Phrases

desk jockey - someone who works at a desk job
behind the desk - in a position of authority or responsibility
clear your desk - to be fired or to organize your workspace
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