I have work

USAGE SUMMARY

"I have work" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
You can use "I have work" to indicate that you have tasks or responsibilities that need to be completed. It can be used in various contexts, such as discussing your schedule, explaining why you are busy, or responding to someone asking what you will be doing. Example: "I have work to do this weekend, so I won't be able to attend the party."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

"I have work to do".

The New York Times - Science

"I have work waiting".

The New York Times - Magazine

I have work.

The Guardian - Film

"I have work to do!" she fumed.

The New York Times - Arts

I have leisure, and I have work.

The Guardian - Music

"I have work to do in my party," he concedes.

The Economist

I have work showing at a gallery right now".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

"I have worked every day since Irene".

The New York Times

(I have worked with the same organizations).

The New Yorker

I have worked a lot with retail.

The New York Times

Rob and I have worked so hard.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I have work" to clearly and directly communicate your current state of being employed or having tasks that need to be attended to.

Common error

While "I have work" is a common and acceptable phrase, avoid overusing it in contexts where more descriptive language would provide better clarity or detail about the type of work you are doing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I have work" functions as a statement of occupation or obligation. It indicates that the speaker is either currently engaged in work activities or has tasks that require their attention, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I have work" is a grammatically correct and very common phrase used to express that one is either employed or has tasks to complete. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is widely accepted and versatile, suitable for many situations. While its tone is generally neutral, it is best to use more specific language when greater detail is needed. Knowing suitable alternatives, like "I have responsibilities" or "I'm working", can help prevent overuse and provide clarity in your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I have a job to do

Uses 'job' instead of 'work', slightly emphasizing the specific task.

I am working

Highlights the ongoing action of performing work tasks.

I am busy with work

Emphasizes the state of being occupied with work-related activities.

I am employed

More formal way to express having work, focuses on the state of employment.

I am on the clock

Indicates being currently at work and obligated to perform duties.

I have responsibilities

Focuses on the obligations and duties associated with work.

I'm tied up with work

Suggests being heavily engaged and possibly unavailable due to work demands.

I have assignments to complete

Highlights the presence of specific tasks that need to be finished.

I'm occupied with my duties

Similar to responsibilities, emphasizes that one's time is taken up by required tasks.

My services are required

A more formal expression implying one's skills or presence is necessary for work.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "I have work" to sound more formal?

To sound more formal, you can use phrases like "I am currently employed", "I am engaged in professional activities", or "My services are required".

What's a casual way to say "I have work"?

More casual alternatives include "I'm working", "I'm on the clock", or "I'm busy with work".

Is it better to say "I have work" or "I have a job"?

The choice depends on the context. "I have work" is more general and refers to tasks or activities. "I have a job" refers to a specific position or role. Use "I have a job" if referring to employment status or seeking employment, e.g., /s/I'm+looking+for+a+job.

What can I say instead of "I have work to do"?

You can use alternatives like "I have tasks to complete", "I have responsibilities", or "I'm occupied with my duties" depending on the specific context.