it either works

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it either works" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the functionality or effectiveness of something, typically in a conditional context. Example: "When testing the new software, we found that it either works perfectly or not at all."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

It either works or it doesn't.

The Guardian

When I make a machine that goes to the bottom of the ocean, it either works or it doesn't.

The New York Times - Magazine

When you're dealing with machines or anything that you build, it either works or it doesn't, no matter how good of a salesman you are.

The New York Times - Magazine

But theatre is brutally binary; it either works or it doesn't, and no one with a fair mind and a taste for the theatrical can deny that this show works.

The New Yorker

It either works for him, or it goes against him".

BBC

(Eh, it either works or it doesn't work.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

What do you mean it either worked or didn't work?

The New Yorker

Chip owns a store that never has anyone in it, either working or shopping.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"It either worked or it didn't," said Doug McFarland, senior vice president and general manager at Media Metrix.

The New York Times

It was my (incorrect) belief that personal involvement could do nothing, and that it either worked or didn't, based on the résumé that I had sent.

Science Magazine

It develops technology and tests it; the technology either works or it doesn't.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it either works" when you want to clearly express that something has only two possible outcomes: success or failure, without any middle ground. This phrasing adds clarity and decisiveness to your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "it either works" when the situation involves a spectrum of results, partial successes, or subjective evaluations. This phrase is best suited for scenarios with clear-cut, binary outcomes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it either works" functions as a conditional statement, presenting a binary outcome. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, emphasizing its role in framing situations with only two possible results.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it either works" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to convey a binary outcome: either something is successful, or it is not. Ludwig identifies its common usage across news, science, and general contexts, highlighting its effectiveness in simplifying complex scenarios. While straightforward, it is crucial to avoid overusing it in situations where more nuanced results are possible. Consider similar phrases like "it succeeds or fails" or "it achieves the goal or misses it" for varied expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it produces the desired result or it doesn't

Focuses on the intended outcome without using evaluative terms like "work".

it brings the desired result, or it doesn't

Specifies the desired outcome and clarifies the binary nature of achieving it.

it either achieves the goal or misses it

Clearly states whether the intended objective is reached.

it succeeds or fails

Uses stronger terms to highlight the contrasting outcomes of success or failure.

its either functional or nonfunctional

Uses more technical language to emphasize the operational state.

it's operational or not operational

Replaces "works" with "operational" to present it as a status.

it's a binary outcome

Emphasizes the two possible results, framing the situation as having only two states.

it's effective or ineffective

Highlights whether something brings the expected result.

it's all or nothing

Highlights the lack of middle ground, implying that partial success is not an option.

it's a make-or-break situation

Suggests the outcome will significantly impact the future.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "it either works" to sound more formal?

In formal contexts, consider alternatives like "it either achieves the desired outcome or it does not", or "its efficacy is binary". These options provide a similar meaning while maintaining a professional tone.

Is "it either works or it doesn't" grammatically correct?

Yes, the phrase "it either works or it doesn't" is grammatically sound and commonly used. It's a concise way to express a binary outcome.

What does "it either works" imply?

The phrase "it either works" suggests that there are only two possible outcomes: complete success or complete failure. There is no middle ground or partial success.

When is it appropriate to use the expression "it either works"?

Use "it either works" when describing situations where the result is unequivocally successful or unsuccessful, such as testing a device or implementing a specific strategy. This contrasts with scenarios where partial success or varying degrees of effectiveness are possible.