engrossed in work

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "engrossed in work" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a person who is focusing intensely on a task and not being distracted. For example, "He was so engrossed in his work that he didn't notice the interruption."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

You may be lucky and share in the research or you may find your tutor is too engrossed in work to teach you properly.

The Guardian

I'm so engrossed in work that I'm oblivious to the fact that I'm on a very crowded plane, taking fast and furious notes about large, hard-to-miss photos that people might deem X-rated.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

The flow times occurred when people were engrossed in either work, study or leisure (sports and movies).

Huffington Post

Instead, she found herself engrossed in--and mastering--the subject.

Science Magazine

Due to restrictions conveyed by a requirement to obtain voluntary participation, any recruitment approach (including that applied in the present study) will convey a response bias, perhaps selecting for those wishing to voice either praise or criticism for their work, missing apathetic students or those simply too engrossed in their work to respond to email solicitations.

BMC Medical Education

"You're engrossed in the work for years, then Mammon enters.

The Guardian - Books

They're completely engrossed in their work and don't look up.

The New Yorker

Becoming engrossed in the work, he hums unconsciously, leaning in carefully to pick out some bits from the surface.

Independent

I was engrossed in the work right through, and Mr. Gilbert drew an exciting performance from the orchestra.

The New York Times - Arts

"People get engrossed in their work, and in the pressure to get the job done, they forget about their bodies".

The New York Times - Tech

On the other side of the desk, Hina looked deeply engrossed in her work, her face inches from her monitor.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To emphasize the positive aspects of being deeply involved, use "engrossed in work" when you want to convey focus, dedication and a flow state.

Common error

While "engrossed in work" is a valid phrase, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "absorbed in work" or "immersed in work" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "engrossed in work" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun or pronoun. It describes the state of being completely absorbed or deeply involved in one's work. Ludwig AI confirms this usage, providing examples from various sources.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "engrossed in work" effectively describes a state of deep focus and absorption in one's tasks. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and provides examples from various reputable sources, including news outlets, academic institutions and general media. It functions as an adjective phrase and carries a neutral tone, making it suitable for diverse writing contexts. To enhance writing, consider related phrases such as "absorbed in work" or "immersed in work". Remember, while the expression is useful, it's important not to overuse it.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

absorbed in work

Emphasizes complete mental absorption, making it slightly more intense.

immersed in work

Suggests a deeper level of involvement, as if one is surrounded by their work.

wrapped up in work

Indicates being fully occupied and potentially difficult to distract.

preoccupied with work

Highlights that work is dominating one's thoughts, suggesting potential worry or concern.

caught up in work

Suggests being unexpectedly or unintentionally deeply involved.

engaged in work

Focuses on active participation and involvement, implying enthusiasm.

focused on work

A more general term indicating concentration, less intense than "engrossed".

consumed by work

Implies that work is taking up all of one's time and energy, often with a negative connotation.

devoted to work

Stresses commitment and dedication, often suggesting a strong sense of purpose.

busy with work

Simply states that one is occupied, lacking the depth of involvement implied by "engrossed".

FAQs

How can I use "engrossed in work" in a sentence?

You can use "engrossed in work" to describe someone who is deeply focused on their tasks. For example: "She was so "engrossed in work" that she didn't notice the time passing."

What are some alternatives to "engrossed in work"?

Some alternatives include "absorbed in work", "immersed in work", or "preoccupied with work". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "engrossed by work" or "engrossed in work"?

"Engrossed in work" is the more common and natural-sounding phrase. "Engrossed by work" isn't incorrect, but it's less frequently used.

How does "engrossed in work" differ from "dedicated to work"?

"Engrossed in work" emphasizes a state of deep focus and involvement, while "dedicated to work" highlights commitment and loyalty. Someone "engrossed in work" is currently very focused, while someone "dedicated to work" consistently prioritizes their job.