a working model

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a working model" is an acceptable phrase to use in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to something that has been created as a test version, such as a prototype or a plan. For example, "The team developed a working model of the new app to test before launching the final version."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Put together a working model.

The New Yorker

Wright resolved to complete Price's work, and to build a working model of the Mechanism.

The New Yorker

He agreed that Mr. Askeland could build a working model of the cat.

The New York Times - Tech

"If it's a working model, let's work it everywhere," he said.

The New York Times

But is the idea really so daft?In this section A working model?

The Economist

A working model created great interest at the Paris Exposition in 1900.

Encyclopedia Britannica

While there is probably a working model of such a computerized kitchen somewhere, the recipe software is already here.

The New York Times - Tech

Mr. Sandel's proposal, he added, "can serve as a working model for the dissemination of many courses".

The New York Times - Arts

A working model for organizing vision intervention practices is presented.

International Congress Series

A working model of direct computer organism interaction is described.

Medical Hypotheses

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

A discussion of why this should happen is presented in 'A working model' section.

Progress in Earth and Planetary Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing early-stage projects, use "a working model" to showcase tangible progress and feasibility.

Common error

Avoid using "a working model" when describing fully developed, market-ready products. Reserve it for prototypes and preliminary versions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a working model" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject or object in a sentence. As shown by Ludwig, it refers to a version of something that is functional, but not necessarily complete or finalized.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a working model" is a noun phrase commonly used to describe a functional prototype or preliminary version of a system or design. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and appears frequently in science, news and media, and formal business contexts. It's suitable for both formal and informal settings, making it a versatile term. When using "a working model", remember that it implies functionality, but not necessarily completion. Alternatives like "a functional prototype" or "a proof of concept" may be more appropriate depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a proof of concept

Replaces "model" with "proof of concept", focusing on validating the feasibility of an idea.

a functional prototype

Replaces "model" with "prototype", emphasizing the functionality and preliminary nature of the design.

an operational system

Focuses on the system's ability to operate and function effectively.

a trial version

Focuses on the fact that the model is a version made available for tests.

a practical demonstration

Highlights the practicality and demonstrative aspect of the model.

a successful implementation

Highlights that the working model was effectively deployed.

a testable hypothesis

Shifts the focus to a hypothesis that can be tested and validated.

a viable solution

Emphasizes that the model offers a possible and workable solution.

a pilot project

Highlights the project’s role as a trial run before full implementation.

an effective mechanism

Emphasizes the mechanism’s effectiveness in achieving a specific result.

FAQs

How can I use "a working model" in a sentence?

Use "a working model" to describe a prototype or preliminary version of a system or project, such as, "The team presented "a working model" of their software at the conference".

What are some alternatives to saying "a working model"?

You can use alternatives like "a functional prototype", "a proof of concept", or "a pilot project" depending on the context.

Is "a working model" formal or informal?

"A working model" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It is commonly used in technical, business, and academic settings.

What's the difference between "a working model" and "a final product"?

"A working model" is a preliminary version or prototype used for testing and demonstration, while "a final product" is the fully developed, market-ready version.