Pronunciation: [lˈe͡ɪbəɹ at] (IPA) 
The correct spelling of the phrase "labor at" indicates both the presence of the "r" sound and the unstressed "a" represented by the schwa sound. In IPA phonetic transcription, "labor at" would be written as /ˈleɪbər æt/. It is important to spell this phrase correctly as it can impact the meaning of a sentence. For example, "I will labor at my desk" versus "I will labor at decorating my house" convey very different images.
"Labor at" is a phrasal verb that refers to the act of working hard or diligently on a certain task or project, putting in a great amount of effort and time. This expression emphasizes the idea of exerting strenuous physical or mental activity to achieve a specific goal. It usually implies that the task at hand is challenging or demanding, requiring dedication, persistence, and continuous effort.
When one labors at something, they invest significant energy and concentration in order to accomplish a task successfully. This term can be used in varied contexts, such as in the workplace, education, or personal pursuits. For example, a student may labor at their studies, spending long hours in the library in order to achieve good grades. Alternatively, a carpenter may labor at constructing a complex piece of furniture, using specialized tools and techniques, requiring meticulous attention to detail.
The phrase "labor at" also conveys a sense of commitment and determination in the face of obstacles or difficulties. It implies a willingness to work through challenges and to put in the necessary effort to achieve the desired outcome. Therefore, laboring at something implies a strong work ethic and an understanding that great results come from dedicated and focused work.
The phrase "labor at" consists of two parts: "labor" and "at".
1. Labor: The word "labor" is derived from the Latin word "labor" which means "work, toil, or exertion". It traces back to Old French "labour" and ultimately from Latin "laborem". The concept of labor as work or physical effort has been present in various languages for centuries.
2. At: The word "at" is a preposition in English, indicating location or time. It comes from the Old English word "æt" or "et" which had similar meanings. The origin of "at" can be traced back to Proto-Germanic and ultimately to the Indo-European root "*end-", meaning "to walk" or "to go".
