doing its work

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "doing its work" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is functioning or performing its intended task or role. Example: "The machine has been running smoothly, doing its work without any issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It can keep doing its work, but it will do so more slowly, or could execute human-specific motions such as lowering its arm to the required position on the side where the person is.

TechCrunch

He said, "It was doing its work in Jala hospital and other places where it has assigned roles".

The New York Times

She had worried that the book might be a terrible idea, but here it was, doing its work, opening a pathway to conversation.

The New Yorker

Although Friedman acknowledges it's a longshot, there is one scenario the project's team are all rooting for: Cosmos 1 is designed to be autonomous, so even though it remains silent, it may be doing its work and in several days time will unfurl its sails and be visible to the naked eye as a bright spot hurtling across the heavens.

Science Magazine

You have taken in more than you know, and it will go on doing its work.

The Guardian - Books

If the department is not doing its work, then what is it doing?" He said that this critique represented "a prevalent sentiment in the Nonaligned Movement".

The New York Times

Representative Jeb Hensarling of Texas, who became the only Republican on the panel last week when Senator Judd Gregg of New Hampshire stepped down, said on Tuesday night that he voted against the initial report because "the jury is still out" on whether the panel was doing its work as he thought it should.

The New York Times

The important tests of whether or not a regulation is fit for a purpose are first whether it will work, and second whether or not it will, in the course of doing its work, have effects on everything else.

TechCrunch

Whether we know it or not, awareness is always doing its work.

Huffington Post

It just means the essential oil is doing its work!

WikiHow

Whether through one's family or out of a desire to go to another country, it is the same mysterious thing going on underneath, doing its work in the manner of fate.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "doing its work" when you want to emphasize that something is functioning as expected and producing results, especially when referring to abstract concepts like processes or systems. For example: "The new policy is doing its work to reduce carbon emissions."

Common error

While "doing its work" is versatile, overuse in informal speech can sound stilted. Opt for more casual alternatives like "working" or "doing its job" in everyday conversation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "doing its work" primarily functions as a verb phrase that describes the action of something performing its intended function or task. Ludwig provides examples showing its usage across various contexts, indicating a widespread and accepted application.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Wiki

12%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "doing its work" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe something performing its intended function. Ludwig provides numerous examples from reliable sources, affirming its widespread acceptance and versatility. While appropriate for both formal and informal contexts, overuse in casual conversation should be avoided. Consider alternatives like "performing its function" or "fulfilling its role" for variety. Use "doing its work" when you want to emphasize the ongoing process of something achieving its desired outcome.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

performing its function

Focuses on the specific action of fulfilling a designed purpose.

fulfilling its role

Emphasizes the part something plays in a larger system.

executing its task

Highlights the completion of a specific assignment.

carrying out its mission

Implies a defined objective or purpose is being pursued.

in the process of working

Describes a continuous state of activity.

operating as intended

Stresses the proper functionality and design compliance.

functioning correctly

Focuses on the accuracy and reliability of the operation.

producing the desired effect

Highlights the outcome of the work being done.

being effective

Stresses the efficiency and success of the work.

achieving its purpose

Emphasizes the attainment of a goal through work.

FAQs

How can I use "doing its work" in a sentence?

You can use "doing its work" to describe a process or system that is functioning as intended. For instance, "The new software is "doing its work" to improve efficiency" or "The medication is "doing its work" to alleviate the symptoms".

What are some alternatives to "doing its work"?

Some alternatives include "performing its function", "fulfilling its role", or "executing its task". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "doing its work" formal or informal?

"Doing its work" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it tends to appear more frequently in professional and news-related content. In very casual conversation, simpler alternatives like "working" might be preferable.

What's the difference between "doing its work" and "doing its job"?

While similar, "doing its work" often implies a more complex or ongoing process, while "doing its job" can refer to a more specific, defined task. For instance, a medicine might be "doing its work" to heal an infection, while an employee is "doing his job" by completing a report.