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mental labor

[/ˈmɛntəl ˈleɪbər/]
nounpl: mental labors
trabalho mental
1. Work that primarily involves cognitive processes, thinking, problem-solving, and intellectual effort rather than physical exertion
Programming requires significant mental labor and concentration.
A programação requer considerável trabalho mental e concentração.
2. Employment or tasks that demand intellectual skills such as analysis, planning, writing, or decision-making
Mental labor has become increasingly valuable in the modern economy.
O trabalho mental tornou-se cada vez mais valioso na economia moderna.
NYC Slang
brainwork
Synonyms
intellectual workcognitive workbrain workdesk workknowledge work
Antonyms
physical labormanual laborbodily work

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
trabalho mental
Standard and most commonly used term
São Paulo
trabalho intelectual
Alternative, more formal variant
Portugal
trabalho intelectual
Preferred term in European Portuguese

Related Idioms & Phrases

put one's mind to something
use one's head
brain drain
knowledge economy
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