a work of engineering

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a work of engineering" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a project, structure, or creation that involves engineering principles and practices. Example: "The new bridge is truly a work of engineering, showcasing innovative design and advanced materials."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

A work of engineering such as a Maillart bridge or a bridge by Christian Menn can outdo some other works of art, because it is not only a gift to the imagination but also structural in the matrix of the world.

The New Yorker

The reader's post (under the heading "Heat Surge fireplace — what's up with that?") also pointed out that close reading of the ads reveals that the craftsmen make only the wood mantels; the heater itself is actually "a work of engineering genius from the China coast".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

High on the North York Moors, winding through the wild sheep tracks between Peak Scar, Cold Kirkby and Gormire, there is a holloway, or sunken path, cut so deeply into the limestone that at first sight you might take it to be a work of Victorian engineering.

The Guardian - Books

This was a lovely conceit: a very tall building that would have been paradoxically modest, a daunting work of engineering as ethereal, in architectural terms, as the structure of a snowflake.

The Guardian - Arts

Crossrail, then, is a mighty work of engineering more dramatic in its making than its completion.

The Guardian

For such a huge work of engineering, any architectural design was little more than window dressing -- the stations were not even free-standing, as they would be with a railroad.

The New York Times

"It's extremely unusual to have a work of heroic civil engineering named after the engineer," said Angus Kress Gillespie, a professor of American studies at Rutgers University whose recent book "Crossing Under the Hudson" recounts the history of both the Holland and Lincoln Tunnels and was, along with Dr. Jackson's book, a source of both inspiration and information for the Hoboken exhibition.

The New York Times

In the days when air travel was new and exciting, flying through the sky on an awe-inspiring work of engineering was a special occasion for which people were inclined to look their best.

Vice

Troubled by inflammatory eye problems, he began modeling in clay as a respite from the more visually demanding work of engineering.

The New York Times - Arts

The conversation, instead, was about the sheer beauty, in enthusiasts' eyes, of the car on the auction floor and its fitness to be called a work of art, as well as of engineering.

The New York Times

"The Avengers" is an impressive feat of cinematic engineering, a work of prodigious skill and efficiency that carries out its cartoonish mission while addressing graver concerns — the construction of a post-9/11 revenge fantasy that takes place against the backdrop of unpopular foreign wars.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a project, specify the area of engineering (e.g., civil, mechanical, software) for clarity and context.

Common error

Avoid using "a work of engineering" as a vague compliment; instead, highlight the specific innovative aspects or challenges overcome in the project's development.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a work of engineering" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object of a preposition. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and usable. This phrase categorizes something as resulting from engineering principles, highlighting its design and construction.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a work of engineering" is a grammatically sound and versatile expression used to describe projects or creations resulting from engineering principles. Ludwig AI analysis and examples show that it appears in various contexts, particularly in news media and science, signifying its broad applicability. While not overly formal, its precise usage is recommended over generic compliments. Alternative expressions such as "an engineering achievement" or "a feat of engineering" can add greater emphasis. The phrase effectively communicates the technical skill and knowledge applied in a project's development, and should be accompanied by specific details for maximum impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an engineering achievement

Focuses on the accomplishment aspect rather than the entity itself.

a feat of engineering

Emphasizes the skill and difficulty involved in the engineering.

an engineering marvel

Highlights the impressive and awe-inspiring nature of the engineering.

a product of engineering

Focuses on the result of the engineering process.

an example of engineering

Highlights specific application of engineering.

a demonstration of engineering

Highlights how engineering techniques are demonstrated through the work.

an exercise in engineering

Implies that the work was done as an exercise or test of engineering skills.

engineering project

It describes the engineering work as a project with a more broad description.

an engineering endeavor

Highlights the challenging and complex nature of the undertaking.

a structure of engineering

Emphasizes the structural aspect of the engineered work.

FAQs

How can I use "a work of engineering" in a sentence?

You can use "a work of engineering" to describe something that showcases skill, precision, and innovation in the field of engineering. For example, "The bridge is "a work of engineering", demonstrating advanced structural design".

What's a more impactful way to describe something that is "a work of engineering"?

Consider using phrases like "an engineering achievement", "a feat of engineering", or "an engineering marvel" to convey greater emphasis.

Which is correct, "a work of engineering" or "an engineering work"?

"A work of engineering" is generally preferred when emphasizing the overall creation or project. "Engineering work" typically refers to specific tasks or efforts within the field.

Is "a work of engineering" considered formal or informal language?

While generally considered neutral, "a work of engineering" can be used in both formal and informal contexts depending on the audience and purpose. In highly technical documents, it might be preferable to use more specific terminology.