back to work

USAGE SUMMARY

"back to work" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in written English.
You could use it to transition between two topics or to indicate that you are ending a discussion in order to focus on a task. For example, "It was nice catching up with you. Now, back to work we go!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Everybody back to work.

The New York Times

Then, back to work.

The New Yorker

Now back to work.

The New York Times

O.K., back to work.

The New York Times

Get back to work".

The New York Times - Arts

They got back to work.

The New Yorker

Most went back to work.

The New Yorker

Or go back to work.

The New York Times - Magazine

He's going back to work.

Independent

"And get back to work".

The New Yorker

I went back to work.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "back to work" to signal a transition from a break, discussion, or other activity to the resumption of work tasks. For example, after a meeting or a coffee break, you might say, "Alright, everyone, back to work!"

Common error

Avoid using "back to work" in situations where work has not yet begun or is not expected. For example, it would be odd to say "back to work" to someone who is starting their first day on the job, as they are not returning from anything.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "back to work" functions primarily as an imperative or declarative phrase, used to signal the resumption of work after an interruption or break. Ludwig provides numerous examples of this usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "back to work" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to indicate a return to one's duties or tasks after an interruption. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across various contexts, primarily in News & Media. While generally neutral in register, it can be adapted for more formal or informal settings with suitable alternatives. Ludwig's examples showcase the phrase's widespread usage and adaptability, reinforcing its role as a straightforward and effective way to signal the resumption of work.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

start working again

This is a straightforward and explicit way to express returning to work.

pick up where one left off

This alternative highlights the continuation of unfinished work.

resume working

This phrase emphasizes the act of starting work again after an interruption.

get down to business

This alternative implies a focused and serious return to work.

return to duty

This alternative uses more formal language to convey the resumption of responsibilities.

return to one's tasks

This suggests a return to specific assigned duties or projects.

recommence work

This option provides a more formal and emphatic way to express the resumption of work.

get back on the job

This alternative uses a more casual tone to indicate returning to work.

get back in the saddle

An idiomatic expression meaning to resume an activity after a break or setback.

head back to the grind

This idiom humorously refers to returning to routine and potentially tedious work.

FAQs

How can I use "back to work" in a sentence?

You can use "back to work" to indicate a return to one's duties after a break or interruption. For example, "After the lunch break, it's time to get "back to work"".

What phrases are similar to "back to work"?

Similar phrases include "return to duty", "resume working", or "get down to business", all suggesting a return to one's responsibilities.

Is it appropriate to use "back to work" in formal settings?

While "back to work" is generally acceptable, more formal alternatives like "return to duty" or "recommence work" may be preferred in highly formal or professional contexts.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "back to work"?

Avoid using "back to work" if the person or group has not previously been working or if the context does not involve a return from a break or interruption. It's best suited for situations where a resumption of tasks is implied.