at the works

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at the works" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a place where work is being done, often in the context of factories or construction sites. Example: "The new machinery is currently being installed at the works, and we expect it to be operational by next month."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

How to look at the works isn't obvious.

The New Yorker

Looking at the works, we are not safe.

The New Yorker

He walked slowly around, chewing on gum and staring blankly at the works.

The New Yorker

Photo: "Farewell to Lulu" by Romare Bearden, at the "Works on Paper" show.

The New York Times

Sue (not her real name), says her husband is approaching his 40th year at the works.

The Guardian - Business

You look at the works and he is not old at all".

The Guardian - Arts

One example is available at the Works and Words Web site ( //www.worksandwords.com/etravels/baobab.htm).

The New York Times

It is the problem with Damien: the idea is immediately understood by anyone who is looking at the works.

Independent

The final touches of its restoration are ongoing at the works of Riley & Son Ltd in Bury.

Independent

"Maybe we can just start looking at the works?" the third judge, the gallerist Julie Saul, proposed.

The New Yorker

Looking at the works from the side, you can see Ms. Parke's slubbed herringbones and checkerboards untouched by paint.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "at the works", ensure the context clearly indicates the specific factory, plant, or industrial location you are referring to. This is especially important when the works has not been previously mentioned.

Common error

Avoid using "at the works" without a clear prior reference or context. If the reader doesn't know which "works" you're referring to, the phrase becomes vague and confusing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at the works" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb or noun, indicating the location of an action or state. Ludwig examples show it specifies where work or activity is taking place, typically in an industrial or manufacturing setting.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Wiki

13%

Science

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at the works" is a common prepositional phrase used to specify a location, typically a factory, plant, or industrial site. While grammatically correct and frequently used, ensuring clear context is crucial. Ludwig provides ample examples demonstrating its use across various sources, including news, encyclopedias and wiki articles. The phrase is most common in neutral registers, often associated with industrial or manufacturing contexts. While there are more modern expressions, Ludwig AI analysis confirms "at the works" remains a valid and understood expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at the factory

A direct synonym specifying the location as a factory.

at the manufacturing plant

A more explicit and formal way to say "at the factory".

in the plant

Refers to being inside a manufacturing plant or industrial facility.

at the industrial site

Emphasizes the industrial nature of the location.

on the factory floor

Specifies a location in a manufacturing setting, focusing on the production area.

within the facility

Specifies a location inside a building or complex used for a particular purpose.

on the construction site

Indicates a location where building or infrastructure work is taking place.

in the workshop

Refers to a specific area where manual or mechanical work is performed.

in the production area

Focuses on where goods are actively being manufactured.

on company premises

A broader term referring to any land or buildings owned or leased by a company.

FAQs

What does the phrase "at the works" mean?

The phrase "at the works" typically refers to being present or located at a factory, plant, or industrial site where manufacturing or other industrial activities take place.

What can I say instead of "at the works"?

You can use alternatives like "at the factory", "in the plant", or "on the construction site" depending on the specific type of "works" you're referring to.

Is "at the works" formal or informal?

"At the works" can be considered neutral, though it's more common in British English and industrial contexts. More formal alternatives might be "at the manufacturing plant" or "on company premises".

How do I use "at the works" in a sentence?

You can use "at the works" to indicate location or activity, for example: "The steel was inspected "at the works" and on the site", or "My father used to work "at the works" for over 30 years".