I've got work to do Meaning in English

expression · lemma: i have work to do

US

EYE-v GOT WURK TOO / TUH / TIH DOO

UK

EYE-v GOT WURK TOO DOO

Definition

This expression means that the speaker needs to do some work now or must finish some tasks. It's often used to excuse oneself from a conversation or event.

Usage & Nuances

Informal and very common, especially when leaving, declining invitations, or excusing yourself. Synonymous with 'I need to work' or 'I'm busy.' The 'I've got' structure is more British/informal; 'I have work to do' is more neutral.

• Spanish: tengo trabajo que hacer
• Portuguese (BR): tenho trabalho para fazer
• Portuguese (PT): tenho trabalho para fazer
• Chinese (Simplified): 我有工作要做
• Chinese (Traditional): 我有工作要做
• Hindi: मुझे काम करना है
• Arabic: لدي عمل لأقوم به
• Bengali: আমার কাজ আছে
• Russian: у меня есть работа
• Japanese: やるべき仕事がある
• Vietnamese: tôi còn việc phải làm
• Korean: 할 일이 있어
• Turkish: yapmam gereken iş var
• Urdu: میرے پاس کام ہے
• Indonesian: saya ada pekerjaan yang harus dilakukan

Example Sentences

Sorry, I've got work to do.

basic

I can't go out tonight because I've got work to do.

basic

She said, "I've got work to do," and left the room.

basic

Hey, I'd love to stay and chat, but I've got work to do.

natural

I'd better go—I've got work to do before tomorrow.

natural

Much as I'd like to join, I've got work to do that can't wait.

natural