I worked him

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I worked him" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is describing having manipulated, influenced, or coerced another person, often in a negative or exploitative manner. Example: "In the negotiation, I worked him to get a better deal for myself."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

He brought him by; I worked him out...

The New York Times - Sports

The more I worked him, the better he behaved.

The New York Times - Sports

"When I worked him the other morning, it seemed like the horse was happy," Stevens said.

The New York Times - Sports

Did [the boy] say something happened?" Sandusky added that the boy had taken a shower, and said "[m]aybe I worked him too hard".

The New Yorker

James was my own obsession at the time, and I worked him in in various ways, also taking up the Jamesian challenge of narrating a large-scale novel in the third person entirely from the point of view of one character.

The Guardian

"I had him [Douvan] in the race, but unless he was really sparkling I wasn't going to send him and when I worked him he didn't do enough for me for a big test like that, it's early enough in the season.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

I was very impressed with him when I worked with him at the T20 World Cup.

BBC

Sandy Weill is a difficult person, but I worked with him and watched him.

Forbes

I worked with him for years and sold him multiple apartments.

The New York Times

No-one knows him better than me because I worked with him for a long time.

BBC

I'll work him out a little".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the connotations of "I worked him". It can imply manipulation or exploitation, so choose it carefully if you intend a neutral or positive meaning. Consider using alternatives like "I collaborated with him" or "I influenced him" if appropriate.

Common error

Be aware that using the phrase "I worked him" can unintentionally suggest unethical behavior. Ensure the context makes your intent clear, or opt for a less ambiguous alternative like "I managed him", depending on the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I worked him" functions as a verb phrase, where 'worked' is the verb and 'him' is the object. Based on Ludwig AI, this construction indicates that the speaker exerted influence or control over the person referred to as 'him'.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I worked him" is a grammatically correct verb phrase that signifies influencing or manipulating someone. While Ludwig AI confirms its usability, it's essential to recognize its potential for negative connotations. The phrase appears most frequently in News & Media contexts. When writing, consider alternatives such as "I managed him", "I collaborated with him", or "I influenced him" to better align with your intended meaning and avoid unintended negative implications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I manipulated him

Emphasizes controlling someone for personal gain, implying a negative connotation.

I exploited him

Highlights using someone unfairly for one's own advantage, stressing the unethical aspect.

I took advantage of him

Similar to exploiting, but can also imply naivety on the part of the person being used.

I influenced him

Suggests a more subtle form of persuasion, without necessarily implying negative intent.

I managed him

Focuses on directing and controlling someone's work or actions, usually in a professional context.

I collaborated with him

Implies a cooperative effort, with both parties working together towards a common goal.

I partnered with him

Similar to collaborating, but often suggests a more formal or official arrangement.

I trained him

Highlights the process of teaching someone new skills or knowledge.

I mentored him

Suggests guiding and advising someone, often with a focus on personal and professional development.

I supervised him

Focuses on overseeing someone's work to ensure it meets standards and deadlines.

FAQs

What does "I worked him" mean?

The phrase "I worked him" can have multiple meanings, ranging from influencing someone to manipulating them for your own benefit. The context determines the specific intent.

Is it correct to say "I worked him"?

Yes, "I worked him" is grammatically correct. However, be mindful of the potential negative connotations associated with the phrase.

What are some alternatives to "I worked him" if I want to avoid negative connotations?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "I collaborated with him", "I influenced him", or "I managed him".

In what situations is it appropriate to use the phrase "I worked him"?

Use "I worked him" when you want to express that you successfully influenced or manipulated someone to achieve a specific outcome. However, always consider the ethical implications of your actions and the potential for misinterpretation.