To labour at or over something implies that the task is difficult.
- The candidate laboured at writing a humble acceptance speech.
- Marika laboured all night long over her final essay.
To labour for or toward something emphasizes the goal.
- Although they were weary, they continued to labour for change.
- As long as he lives, Juan will labour toward the freedom of his homeland.
Copyright notice for Writing Tips Plus
© His Majesty the King in Right of Canada, represented by the Minister of Public Services and Procurement
A tool created and made available online by the Translation Bureau, Public Services and Procurement Canada
Search by related themes
Want to learn more about a theme discussed on this page? Click on a link below to see all the pages on the Language Portal of Canada that relate to the theme you selected. The search results will be displayed in Language Navigator.
Related links
- Writing Tips Plus (home page)
- Writing tools
- Language Navigator (for fast access to language tips)
- TERMIUM Plus®