εργάζομαι vs δουλεύω

[dukainerocks_13494]

Are these interchangeable, or are there certain instances where you would use one over the other?

[team.greek]

Hey dukainerocks,

The verbs εργάζομαι and δουλεύω have different etymology.
εργάζομαι: from Ancient Greek ἐργάζομαι (to work), from ἔργον (work, labour, deed, action)
δουλεύω: from Ancient Greek δουλόω (to enslave), from δοῦλος (slave)

One of the main meanings of both verbs is to work. In that case, they are interchangeable, as synonyms.
ex. I work as a teacher - Δουλεύω ως καθηγητής (informal) or Εργάζομαι ως καθηγητής (formal)

There are cases, though where εργάζομαι cannot replace δουλεύω.
ex. Η κάμερα δε δουλεύει - The camera is not working.
In the above case, δουλεύω has the meaning of function.

Moreover, δουλεύω has another slangy meaning of pulling somebody's leg, teasing.
ex. Μη με δουλεύεις - Don't pull my leg
In that case also it cannot be replaced.

Let us know, if you have any other question.

All the best,
Nektarios
Team GreekPod101.com