backlog of work

USAGE SUMMARY

"backlog of work" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to a large number of tasks that have accumulated and must be completed. For example: "I have a huge backlog of work to do before the end of the quarter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

For the first time in 27 months factories built up a backlog of work.

The New York Times

All of this has created a huge backlog of work at the city's parks office.

The New York Times

To be sure, output rose but only because factories cleared their backlog of work.

The Guardian - Business

He had a backlog of work, but "if tourers come in, we do them first.

The Guardian - Travel

That has created a backlog of work for previously strapped mill restorers.

The New York Times

These are modest given the backlog of work that needs to be done, but welcome nevertheless.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

And because he writes so prolifically for companies elsewhere -- "In the Penal Colony," first given in Seattle last year, is his 17th opera, by one count -- there is a growing backlog of works that have not been heard in New York or recorded.

The New York Times - Arts

Staffing shortages were causing backlogs of work and processing delays.

Harvard University

Backlogs of work build up and the whole child protection system becomes overheated.

The Guardian

All have large backlogs of work for their rigs and have strong balance sheets.

The New York Times

"Prospects for April look poor, with companies reporting steeper rates of decline for both new orders and backlogs of work".

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "backlog of work", clearly define the type of work to provide context. For example, specify "engineering backlog of work" or "administrative backlog of work".

Common error

Avoid assuming that everything in a "backlog of work" has equal priority. Clearly define priorities within the backlog to ensure that the most critical tasks are addressed first.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "backlog of work" functions primarily as a noun phrase. Ludwig examples show it's used as the subject or object of a sentence, describing a collection of tasks needing completion. It follows standard grammar rules, as affirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Academia

24%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Science

7%

Wiki

4%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "backlog of work" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe an accumulation of tasks that need to be completed. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. As shown in the examples, this phrase appears most frequently in News & Media contexts, and also in Academia and Formal & Business settings, indicating a neutral to professional register. When using the phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the type of work involved and avoid assuming that everything in the backlog has equal priority. While alternatives like "accumulation of tasks" exist, "backlog of work" is widely understood and accepted.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Outstanding workload

Highlights the work that remains to be done.

Accumulation of tasks

Focuses on the increasing quantity of tasks.

Unfinished duties

Emphasizes the incomplete nature of the tasks.

Pending projects

Specifically refers to projects that are waiting to be started or finished.

Pileup of assignments

Implies a disorganized accumulation of assignments.

Overdue tasks

Highlights tasks that are past their deadline.

Inventory of unfinished projects

Refers to the count of unfinished projects

Surplus of responsibilities

Emphasizes an excess of responsibilities.

Array of incomplete jobs

Indicates a collection of jobs that are not yet done.

Queue of pending actions

Suggests an ordered line of actions waiting to be addressed.

FAQs

How can I effectively manage a "backlog of work"?

Prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance, delegate when possible, and break down large tasks into smaller, manageable steps. Regular review and updates to the backlog are also crucial.

What are some strategies for reducing a "backlog of work"?

Streamline processes, automate repetitive tasks, and consider temporary staffing or outsourcing to alleviate the workload. Focus on completing high-impact tasks first.

Is it better to say "accumulation of work" or "backlog of work"?

Both phrases are acceptable, but "backlog of work" is more common, especially in professional settings. "Accumulation of tasks" is a valid alternative and implies a growing quantity of work.

How does a "backlog of work" affect productivity?

A large "backlog of work" can lead to stress and reduced productivity if not managed effectively. It's essential to prioritize, delegate, and address the most critical tasks to maintain efficiency and prevent burnout.