Spadework: meaning, definitions and examples
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spadework
[ ˈspeɪdˌwɜrk ]
preparatory work
Spadework refers to the essential and often tedious preparatory work that is necessary to complete a project or task. It typically involves research, analysis, or groundwork that must be done before the actual work begins. The term can imply that the work is not glamorous but is vital for success. Spadework is frequently used in contexts such as journalism, business, and academic research.
Synonyms
background work, groundwork, preparation, research.
Examples of usage
- The spadework for the investigation took several months.
- Before launching the product, the team did extensive spadework on market research.
- The lawyer emphasized the importance of spadework in building a strong case.
Translations
Translations of the word "spadework" in other languages:
🇵🇹 trabalho preliminar
🇮🇳 प्रारंभिक कार्य
🇩🇪 Vorarbeit
🇮🇩 pekerjaan awal
🇺🇦 попередня робота
🇵🇱 praca wstępna
🇯🇵 下準備
🇫🇷 travail préparatoire
🇪🇸 trabajo preliminar
🇹🇷 ön çalışma
🇰🇷 기초 작업
🇸🇦 عمل تمهيدي
🇨🇿 předběžná práce
🇸🇰 predbežná práca
🇨🇳 初步工作
🇸🇮 predhodno delo
🇮🇸 undirbúningsvinna
🇰🇿 алдын ала жұмыс
🇬🇪 სასტუმრო სამუშაო
🇦🇿 ilkin iş
🇲🇽 trabajo preliminar
Etymology
The term 'spadework' originates from the literal work done with a spade, a tool used for digging or turning soil. Its usage in English dates back to the late 19th century, where it was metaphorically applied to refer to the preparatory tasks that require hard work and effort in various fields. The concept reflects the idea that just as spades are essential for cultivating land, similar preliminary efforts are crucial for achieving success in other complex endeavors. Over time, 'spadework' has become a common phrase in business, journalism, and academia to signify the groundwork that is often unseen but is fundamental in ensuring the effectiveness of subsequent tasks.