At work

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "At work" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a physical location where one is employed or to describe activities related to one's job. Example: "I can't talk right now; I'm at work and busy with a project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

At work, Frank is promoted.

The New Yorker

At work?

The New York Times

"Look, we're at work.

The New York Times - Arts

It's karma at work.

The New York Times - Sports

He thrived at work.

The New Yorker

Education reform at work!

The New York Times

She was at work.

The New Yorker

Czerniawski was at work.

The New York Times - Magazine

Very hard at work.

Independent

Others suffocated at work.

Independent

"I'm back at work.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "At work", ensure it clearly indicates either the location (workplace) or the activity of performing job-related duties. For clarity, specify the context in sentences like "I can't be reached at work before noon" or "He's been diligently at work on the project since Monday."

Common error

Avoid using "At work" vaguely. Ensure it's clear whether you're referring to a physical location or the state of performing tasks. Instead of saying "Things are happening at work", specify with "Changes are happening at the office" or "Progress is happening on the project".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "At work" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs to indicate location or state of being. Ludwig confirms its correctness, and examples show it specifying where someone is (e.g., "She was at work") or describing ongoing activity (e.g., "Evolution at work!").

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "At work" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to indicate location or the state of performing job-related activities. According to Ludwig, it is correct and widely used. Its neutral register makes it appropriate for various contexts, from professional to informal. When using "At work", ensure clarity by specifying whether you are referring to a location or an ongoing activity, and consider using alternative phrases like "on the job" or "in the workplace" for variety. Understanding its usage and context will enhance your writing and communication skills.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

On the job

Replaces "at work" with a synonym, focusing on the act of performing tasks.

In the workplace

Specifies the location of work, emphasizing the physical environment.

During working hours

Focuses on the time spent doing work.

Engaged in labor

Highlights the activity of working, using a more formal tone.

Occupied with tasks

Emphasizes the state of being busy with work-related duties.

In a professional capacity

Indicates that one is acting in their role as an employee or professional.

At one's occupation

Rephrases "at work" by using the more formal word "occupation".

Actively employed

Highlights the state of being employed and engaged in work.

While on duty

Emphasizes the obligation and responsibility of working.

Busily employed

Adds emphasis to the state of being actively engaged in work.

FAQs

How can I use "At work" in a sentence?

You can use "At work" to indicate location, as in "I am "at work" now, so I cannot talk", or to describe the state of working on something, such as "She is "at work" on the new presentation".

What's the difference between saying "At work" and "In the office"?

"At work" is a broader term referring to any work-related activity or location, while "In the office" specifically refers to the physical office space. Therefore, you'd say, "I'm "at work" even when I'm working from home", but "I left my keys in the office".

Can I use "At work" to describe a process or concept?

Yes, you can use "At work" metaphorically to describe a process, force or concept that is operating or functioning. For example, "There are competing factors "at work" within the system".

What are some alternatives to "At work" that I can use to vary my writing?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "on the job", "in the workplace", or "during working hours" as alternatives to "At work".