Spanish Conversation · Level 65
60 words
Spanish word
oficio
Pronunciation
IPA/oˈfiθjo/
Meaning
- masculine nounjob
Example
Mi oficio es enfermero.
My job is being a nurse.
More examples
Se formó en un oficio y ahora trabaja como técnico.
He trained in a trade and now works as a technician.
Core concept
A practiced profession or craft that requires learned skill.
Common phrases
formarse en un oficio
train in a trade
oficio especializado
specialized trade
Similar words
trabajo: Physical or mental work performed to earn pay or produce results.
empleo: Paid position with an employer that provides regular wages and hours.
profesión: Specialized profession acquired through long study or training and formal qualifications.
ocupación: Daily activity or way of spending time, whether a job or a regular pastime.
Definition in Spanish
Trabajo u ocupación que una persona ejerce para ganarse la vida, especialmente cuando implica una habilidad o práctica aprendida.
Word origin
Borrowed from Latin officium 'duty, service' through medieval Spanish ofício, the term narrowed to mean the specific work and skill someone exercises for a living.
Usage tips
- Despite resembling English 'office' or 'official', 'oficio' means a person's trade or skilled job rather than a workplace, and everyday self-introductions usually use 'Trabajo como...' or 'Soy...'.