wɜːrk ɒn
neutral
beginner
- Base verb:
- work
- Particle:
- on
- Separable:
- No
What does "work on" mean?
- To spend time and effort trying to improve or complete something
- To try to influence or persuade someone
- To practice or develop a skill
Examples
- I've been working on this project for three months.
- She's working on her French before the trip to Montreal.
- I'll work on my boss to get us a bigger budget.
- He needs to work on his communication skills.
- The mechanics are working on the car right now.
How to use it
Essential phrasal verb for discussing progress and tasks. 'What are you working on?' is a common question about someone's current project or activity.
Similar expressions
develop
improve
practice
focus on
try to influence
Opposites
neglect
abandon
ignore
Related phrasal verbs
- work out
To exercise to improve fitness
- work up
To develop or create something gradually
- work through
To deal with a problem or difficult situation by discussing or thinking about it
- work off
To get rid of something unwanted by working or exercising
- turn on
To start a device or appliance by pressing a switch or button
- get on
To board a bus, train, plane, or other transport
Use it in a practice answer
Try "work on" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.