it is work

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is work" is not typically used in written English.
You can use the phrase "it is hard work" to describe a difficult task that requires a lot of effort. For example: "Climbing a mountain is not easy - it is hard work!".

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

And really, whatever "it" is (work, chores, homework) will still be there after you take a much-needed break.

Huffington Post

It is work".

The New York Times - Sports

Now it is work".

The New York Times - Sports

It is work that demands constant attention.

The New York Times

It is work rarely in the spotlight.

The New York Times

It is work; art is work.

The Guardian - Books

It is work that will not be easy.

The Guardian

It is work, but the weather is great.

The New York Times

And if it is work, shouldn't it be paid?

The Guardian

"It is work, not doping," el-Guerrouj said.

The New York Times - Sports

"It's work, but it's more fun than it is work.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is work", consider adding a descriptive adjective to enhance clarity and impact. For example, "it is hard work", "it is rewarding work", or "it is demanding work".

Common error

Avoid using "it is work" as a standalone statement without providing sufficient context or elaboration. Always specify what "it" refers to and, if possible, what kind of work it is.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is work" functions as a statement of fact, asserting that a particular activity or endeavor requires effort, exertion, or labor. While Ludwig provides examples of its usage, it also indicates potential grammatical issues depending on the context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it is work" is a common expression used to state that something requires effort or labor. While grammatically acceptable, it often benefits from additional context or descriptive adjectives to enhance clarity. As Ludwig indicates, the phrase appears frequently in News & Media sources. For more formal or descriptive writing, consider alternatives such as "it requires effort" or specifying the type of work involved. Remember to provide sufficient context when using the phrase to ensure clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's a job

A more concise and informal way of expressing that something is work.

it constitutes labor

Replaces "work" with a more formal synonym and restructures the sentence slightly.

it's a task

Similar to "it's a job" but focuses on a specific assignment or duty.

it involves effort

Focuses on the aspect of effort required, implying a task needing exertion.

it represents a task

Emphasizes the task-oriented nature of the subject, shifting focus from labor to assignment.

it requires diligence

Highlights the need for attentiveness and perseverance in the activity.

it demands action

Focuses on the imperative nature of the situation, suggesting necessary steps.

it necessitates commitment

Highlights the level of dedication required for the endeavor.

it boils down to effort

Expresses that the essence of something is simply effort or hard work.

it translates to employment

Suggests that something results in or constitutes employment, often in a broader sense.

FAQs

How can I use "it is work" in a sentence?

You can use "it is work" to emphasize that a task requires effort or dedication. For example, "Although challenging, "co-parenting" is work every single day to keep this going.

What are some alternatives to saying "it is work"?

Alternatives include phrases like "it requires effort", "it's a job", or "it involves labor", depending on the context.

Is "it is work" grammatically correct?

While commonly used, the phrase "it is work" can be considered grammatically informal. More descriptive alternatives often provide greater clarity.

What's the difference between "it is work" and "it is hard work"?

"It is work" simply states that something requires effort. "It is hard work" emphasizes that the task is particularly difficult or demanding.