getting something to work

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "getting something to work" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the process of making something function properly or successfully, often in a technical or problem-solving context. Example: "After several attempts at troubleshooting, I finally succeeded in getting the software to work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Tech

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

The satisfaction of getting something to work.

The New York Times

The electronics industry has moved out of its initial phase: getting something to work.

The New York Times - Tech

If they were having an issue getting something to work we'd have product marketing and technical support on call 24/7 to help.

Harvard Business Review

Sometimes people think that I... am enthusiastic, and sometimes either slow to react or put hurdles in the way of getting something to work.

The Guardian

If Ubuntu doesn't automatically install a driver, it can be quite a bit of effort getting something to work, and not all hardware and peripherals will work with Linux.

The Guardian - Tech

The thing that gives me most pleasure is when I feel I've really engaged with my colleagues, other like-minded individuals, in getting something to work, and that I'm part of something.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

I loved when I got something to work".

The New York Times

He added, "We've got something to work with now".

The New York Times - Sports

"Now we've got something to work with," he recalls thinking to himself.

The New York Times

"We've got something to work with now," said Appleby, delighted by what he saw.

The Guardian - Sport

If you can do that, then even if it's not that good you have got something to work at.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing technical achievements, emphasize the specific steps taken in "getting something to work" rather than just stating the outcome.

Common error

Avoid using "getting something to work" when a more precise term related to the specific action (e.g., 'debugging', 'implementing') would provide greater clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "getting something to work" functions as a gerund phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the action of making something functional, which is confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

20%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Science

5%

Tech

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "getting something to work" is a grammatically correct and commonly used gerund phrase that describes the process of making something functional. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase sees usage across various contexts, including News & Media and Formal & Business settings. While generally neutral in tone, technical contexts may benefit from more precise terminology. Related phrases include "making something functional" and "successfully implementing something". When using this phrase, focus on the specific steps taken and avoid overgeneralization to enhance clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

making something functional

Focuses on the result of the action, emphasizing the functionality achieved.

successfully implementing something

Highlights the successful execution and application of a plan or idea.

getting a system operational

Focuses on the system becoming ready for use.

making something operational

Focuses on the process of making something ready for use or in service.

troubleshooting an issue

Emphasizes the problem-solving aspect of making something work.

getting something running

Highlights the continuous operation of a system or process.

bringing something online

Specifically refers to making a system or service operational and accessible.

solving a technical problem

Focuses on overcoming a challenge to achieve functionality.

activating a process

Emphasizes the starting or initiating of a process or system.

achieving a desired outcome

Highlights the successful attainment of a specific goal or result.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "getting something to work" to sound more formal?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "successfully implementing something" or "making something functional" to convey a similar meaning with a more professional tone.

Is "getting something to work" appropriate for technical documentation?

While "getting something to work" is understandable, technical documentation often benefits from more precise language. Consider using terms like "troubleshooting an issue" or "getting a system operational" for better clarity.

What's the difference between "getting something to work" and "making something work"?

While both phrases are similar, "getting something to work" often implies a process of effort or troubleshooting to achieve functionality, while "making something work" can refer to both the process and the inherent ability to function.

What are some alternatives to "getting something to work" when describing a software fix?

When referring to software fixes, you might use alternatives like "debugging", "resolving an issue", or "implementing a patch" for greater precision.