doing the paperwork

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "doing the paperwork" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the process of completing necessary documents or forms, often in a professional or administrative context. Example: "After the meeting, I spent the afternoon doing the paperwork to finalize the contract."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

Doing the paperwork after his parents' death was a challenge.

The Economist

Nearby two smartly dressed men were doing the paperwork.

The Guardian

Others earn their living transporting the fruit, making boxes, or doing the paperwork.

The Economist

Behind every good farmer there is a good wife doing the paperwork and helping him along".

Independent

Mr Karczewski is now doing the paperwork for his Ukrainians' work permits and visas and hoping for the best.

The Economist

She was hearing, though, she said, from Postal Service accountants "screaming at me that I was doing the paperwork wrong".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

Another daughter, Nancy Newton, answers the phones and does the paperwork.

The New York Times

Clavijo must do the paperwork and the liaison work himself.

The New York Times - Sports

I can do the paperwork and get such satisfaction".

The New York Times

So did the paperwork for the pieces that he purchased on behalf of his clients.

The Economist

Seventeen!" My mother and I followed someone into the admitting office to do the paperwork.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing administrative duties, consider whether "doing the paperwork" accurately reflects the scope of the task. Alternatives like "managing the documentation" or "processing the forms" might be more appropriate depending on the context.

Common error

While "doing the paperwork" is acceptable, avoid using it excessively in formal reports or academic papers. Opt for more precise and professional terms such as "completing the documentation" or "managing administrative tasks" to maintain a higher level of formality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "doing the paperwork" functions as a gerund phrase, acting as a noun. It describes the activity of completing administrative tasks. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "doing the paperwork" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe the act of completing administrative tasks. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While versatile, it's crucial to consider the context: formal settings might benefit from more precise alternatives like "managing the documentation". Predominantly featured in News & Media and Science contexts, the phrase serves to convey the action of handling forms and documents, a sentiment echoed by related alternatives like "handling the documentation" or "completing the forms". When writing, remember to choose the phrase that best fits the register and level of formality required.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

handling the documentation

Focuses on managing documents, implying a broader scope than just filling them out.

completing the forms

Specifically refers to filling out forms, a subset of general paperwork.

processing the documents

Highlights the act of managing documents through a system or process.

managing the records

Emphasizes the organization and maintenance of records, not necessarily filling them out.

taking care of the admin

A more informal way to describe handling administrative tasks, including paperwork.

attending to the administration

Suggests a focus on the overall management and oversight of administrative duties.

taking charge of the documentation

Emphasizes responsibility and control over the documentation process.

working on the files

Implies actively working with files, which may include paperwork but also other tasks.

sorting out the bureaucracy

Highlights the act of navigating and resolving bureaucratic processes, often involving paperwork.

tackling the administration

Suggests a proactive and determined approach to handling administrative tasks.

FAQs

What does "doing the paperwork" mean?

The phrase "doing the paperwork" refers to the act of completing administrative tasks that involve filling out forms, managing documents, or handling official records.

How can I use "doing the paperwork" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe any situation where someone is engaged in administrative tasks. For example: "The accountant spent the morning "doing the paperwork" for the tax returns."

What can I say instead of "doing the paperwork"?

You can use alternatives like "handling the documentation", "completing the forms", or "processing the documents" depending on the context.

Is "doing the paperwork" formal or informal?

The phrase is generally considered neutral. In more formal contexts like academic writing or official reports, it's often better to use more precise terms like "managing documentation" or "completing administrative tasks".