meant to work

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "meant to work" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is intended or designed to function in a particular way. Example: "This software was meant to work seamlessly with the existing system, but we encountered some compatibility issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"We are meant to work".

The New York Times - Sports

"Are they meant to work for nothing?

The Guardian

It is meant to work invisibly and automatically.

The Economist

But so is knowing how it is meant to work.

The Economist

This is how homeownership was meant to work.

The New York Times

It wasn't meant to work – but of course it did.

The Guardian - Sport

The ads are meant to work together, to mutually reinforce each other's claims.

The New York Times

So how am I meant to work out which is the best account for me?

Independent

We talked about life and what it meant to work, and what the future may bring.

The New York Times

Our political system is not meant to work in a tied system.

The New York Times

The app is meant to work with your phone set on your mattress.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "meant to work", ensure the context clearly indicates the intended function or purpose. For example, "This tool is meant to work with both Windows and macOS" clearly specifies compatibility.

Common error

Avoid using "meant to work" as an absolute guarantee of functionality. It describes intent, not necessarily flawless execution. Instead, acknowledge potential limitations. For example, say "This solution is meant to work in most cases, but some configurations may require adjustments."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "meant to work" functions as a modal verb phrase indicating the intended or expected functionality of something. Ludwig AI examples demonstrate its use in various contexts, from software to political systems, to suggest a pre-determined or designed operation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

20%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "meant to work" is a common and versatile phrase used to describe the intended functionality or expected operation of something. Ludwig AI data indicates that it frequently appears in news and media, as well as in scientific contexts. The phrase maintains a neutral register and its meaning is consistently clear. Keep in mind that while "meant to work" expresses intention, it does not guarantee flawless execution. Therefore, acknowledge potential limitations when using this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

designed to function

Emphasizes the design aspect, focusing on the intended operation.

intended to operate

Highlights the intended operation or performance of something.

supposed to function

Indicates an expectation or requirement for something to work in a specific way.

expected to perform

Focuses on the anticipated performance or outcome of something.

set up to run

Describes the configuration or arrangement for operation.

created to serve

Highlights the purpose or service that something is designed to provide.

engineered to operate

Emphasizes the engineering aspect, focusing on designed operation.

built to last

Focuses on durability, it stresses long lasting usage of something.

made for use

Highlights the intended use or application.

aimed to function

Emphasizes the goal of something to function properly.

FAQs

How can I use "meant to work" in a sentence?

You can use "meant to work" to describe the intended function or design of something. For example, "This software is "designed to function" seamlessly with existing systems."

What are some alternatives to "meant to work"?

Alternatives include phrases like "intended to operate", "supposed to function", or "expected to perform depending on the context."

Which is correct, "meant to work" or "supposed to work"?

Both "meant to work" and "supposed to work" are generally correct, but "meant to work" implies a design or intention, while "supposed to work" suggests a general expectation.

What's the difference between "meant to work" and "designed to work"?

"Meant to work" implies an intention or purpose, while "designed to work" emphasizes the engineering and planning that went into creating the functionality. They are often interchangeable, but the nuance can shift the focus.