is still in the works

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is still in the works" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is still in the process of being developed or completed. Example: The new software update is still in the works, but it is expected to be released by the end of the month.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Tech

Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

Casting is still in the works.

The New York Times

But a Desai/Chia faucet is still in the works.

The New York Times

The BBC's third season is still in the works.

The New York Times - Arts

A final Senate bill is still in the works.

The New York Times

Just how science will be taught in the monasteries is still in the works.

The New York Times - Science

The stick is still in the works, largely because the politics of SDMI have proved so difficult.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

Others are still in the works.

The New York Times

Yeah, that's still in the works.

The Guardian

Cablevision confirmed that the deal was still in the works.

The New York Times

Two years later, Parton said the dance LP was still "in the works".

The Guardian - Music

But regulations to put the changed law into effect are still in the works.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is still in the works" to indicate that a project, plan, or idea is currently being developed but not yet finalized. It's suitable for both formal and informal contexts, suggesting progress is ongoing.

Common error

Avoid using "is still in the works" when referring to something that was previously in development but has now been completed or abandoned. Instead, use phrases like "was in development" or "was being worked on".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is still in the works" functions as a predicate adjective, describing the state of a noun (project, plan, etc.). It indicates that the subject is currently undergoing development or preparation. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Tech

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is still in the works" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to indicate that something is currently under development or being planned but is not yet finished. As Ludwig AI confirms, it adheres to standard grammatical rules. Usage is most frequent in news and media contexts. While many alternatives exist, such as "is currently being developed" or "is in progress", the specific choice depends on the nuance you wish to convey. Remember to avoid misusing it in past tense when discussing completed or abandoned projects. All in all, understanding such tips allows you to improve your writing and prevent common mistakes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is still being developed

Similar meaning, more focus on the development aspect and it is ongoing.

remains under development

Emphasizes the continuous state of development and the ongoing effort.

is in progress

A more concise way of saying something is underway but not yet finished.

is currently being developed

Focuses on the ongoing development aspect, emphasizing the active process.

is being prepared

Focuses on the preparation stage, implying readiness is approaching.

is yet to be completed

Highlights the unfinished status, emphasizing the need for further work.

is under construction

Implies a more tangible creation or building process.

is being planned

Highlights the planning phase, suggesting the initial stages are underway.

is in the pipeline

Suggests that the item is part of a series of developments and will be released eventually.

is on the drawing board

An idiomatic expression indicating that the concept is still in the design phase.

FAQs

What does "is still in the works" mean?

The phrase "is still in the works" means that something is currently being developed or planned but is not yet complete or finalized. It indicates an ongoing process.

How can I use "is still in the works" in a sentence?

You can use "is still in the works" to describe projects, plans, or ideas that are under development. For example, "The new marketing campaign "is still in the works" and will launch next quarter."

What are some alternatives to "is still in the works"?

Alternatives include phrases like "is currently being developed", "is in progress", or "remains under development", depending on the specific context.

Is "is still in the works" formal or informal?

"Is still in the works" is generally considered appropriate for both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal writing, you might prefer a more precise or technical alternative like "remains under development".