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precario

precarious

adjective preh-KAH-ryoh Rare
Descriptions & Qualities Conditions

Origin: From Latin precarius (obtained by prayer, uncertain), from prex (prayer).

Also means

unstable

Usage Note

Precario is a key word in contemporary Italian discourse: lavoro precario refers specifically to temporary, insecure employment — a major social issue. As a noun un precario / una precaria means a person in precarious employment, especially in the public sector. The feminine and plural forms follow the regular -o/-a/-i/-e pattern.

Examples

"La sua situazione lavorativa è ancora precaria."

Natural Translation

His work situation is still precarious.

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