Portuguese Phrase
Trabalho nos fins de semana.
Meaning
This sentence expresses a habitual or routine action occurring every weekend. The verb 'trabalhar' is conjugated in the first-person singular present tense to indicate a current, ongoing work schedule.
When to use
Use this phrase when discussing your work routine or explaining why you are unavailable for social events on Saturdays and Sundays. It is a standard way to describe your professional availability.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Trabalhonosfins de semana
Trabalho (Verb)
This is the 'eu' (I) form of the regular verb 'trabalhar' in the present indicative.
Nos (Contraction)
A combination of the preposition 'em' (in/on) and the plural article 'os' (the).
Fins de semana
The plural of 'fim de semana'. Note that only 'fim' becomes plural ('fins') in this compound noun.
🗨In Conversation
Você quer ir ao parque no sábado?
Do you want to go to the park on Saturday?
Eu adoraria, mas trabalho nos fins de semana.
I would love to, but I work on weekends.
✕Common Mistakes
Trabalho em fins de semana.
While 'em' is understandable, 'nos' (the contraction of 'em' + 'os') is the more natural way to indicate 'on the' weekends in a general sense.
Trabalho no fim de semana.
The singular 'no fim de semana' usually refers to one specific upcoming weekend, whereas the plural 'nos fins de semana' refers to a recurring habit.
↔Alternatives
Trabalho aos fins de semana.
I work on weekends (Common in Portugal).
Eu trabalho todos os fins de semana.
I work every weekend.
Cultural Tip
In Portuguese-speaking countries, the weekend is a primary time for family and social gatherings. If you mention working on weekends, people may view it as a significant commitment, as Saturday and Sunday are traditionally reserved for leisure and 'descanso'.