DONKEY WORK Meaning and
Definition
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Donkey work refers to arduous, laborious, or repetitive tasks that are often considered menial or unskilled. It is a term derived from the hard work traditionally performed by donkeys, which are known for their strength and ability to carry heavy loads. The expression is typically used to describe tasks that require physical effort, lack intellectual stimulation, or demand sustained endurance.
In a figurative sense, donkey work can also refer to tedious or monotonous activities that may be essential but are considered less glamorous or enjoyable. It denotes the kind of work that may be necessary for a larger project or goal, but is often overlooked or underappreciated.
The term can be used in various contexts, such as in manual labor jobs, bureaucratic or administrative tasks, or in any situation where individuals are required to carry out repetitive or mundane duties. Donkey work is often characterized by its association with hard physical labor, routine responsibilities, and its lack of intellectual or creative engagement.
Though the term "donkey work" may imply a certain level of grunt work or inferiority, it is important to recognize the essential role such tasks play in contributing to overall productivity. Despite its connotations, donkey work is often crucial for the successful completion of projects, and without it, more specialized or complex tasks may not be possible.
Common Misspellings for DONKEY WORK
- sonkey work
- xonkey work
- conkey work
- fonkey work
- ronkey work
- eonkey work
- dinkey work
- dknkey work
- dlnkey work
- dpnkey work
- d0nkey work
- d9nkey work
- dobkey work
- domkey work
- dojkey work
- dohkey work
- donjey work
- donmey work
- donley work
- donoey work
Etymology of DONKEY WORK
The etymology of the phrase "donkey work" refers to hard, menial, or laborious tasks.
The term "donkey" in this phrase is believed to have originated from the domesticated animal, the donkey. Donkeys are known for their strength, endurance, and their ability to carry heavy loads. They have historically been used extensively for tasks like carrying loads, plowing fields, and other physically demanding work.
The word "work", on the other hand, derives from the Old English word "weorc", which meant any kind of exertion or labor.
When combined, "donkey work" is used metaphorically to describe tasks or work that is considered arduous, repetitive, or mundane, similar to the type of work typically performed by donkeys. The term emphasizes the perception of the task as being hard, menial, or uninteresting.
Idioms with the word DONKEY WORK
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do (all) the donkey work
The idiom "do (all) the donkey work" means to undertake the majority of the difficult or laborious tasks in a particular situation or project. It refers to doing the hard work that is necessary for the completion of a task, often involving physical effort or repetitive actions. It implies taking on the less glamorous or more burdensome aspects of a job or responsibilities.
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do the donkey work
The idiom "do the donkey work" means to do the difficult, laborious, or mundane tasks or assignments that no one else wants to do. It refers to doing the bulk of the effort or groundwork in a task or project, often without receiving much recognition or praise.
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donkey work
Donkey work refers to menial or tedious tasks that are often considered boring or repetitive. It can also be used to describe physical labor or grunt work that is necessary but not particularly skilled or creative.
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