near work

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "near work" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to tasks or activities that require close visual attention, such as reading or working on a computer. Example: "After several hours of near work, I needed to take a break to rest my eyes."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

This protective effect reduced the influence of lots of near work or having short-sighted parents – so it wasn't just that children spent less time on near work.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

the common belief that "near work"—reading or computer use leads to nearsightedness is incorrect.

The New Yorker

Near work activity includes reading and homework on weekdays and weekends.

Nature

Among children who spend the same amount of time outside, the amount of near work has no correlation with nearsightedness.

The New York Times

However, it is recommended that the child removes the distance glasses during near work, as distance glasses could induce hyeropic defocus during near-work and is believed to contribute to further myopia progression [96, 97].

Nature

Neither near work nor outdoor activity was associated with SE, AL, and myopia.

Duke University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

Take frequent breaks from near-work activities.

University of California, Berkeley

Too many hours of near-work can cause a strain on your eye ― that dreaded tension and tiredness you feel.

HuffPost

Prior investigations [ 2] have demonstrated a strong relation between myopia and near-work with excessive academic activity.

BMC Ophthalmology

In contrast, some studies [e.g., Low, Dirani, Gazzard & Chan [ 13]] have reported on the lack of effect of near-work on myopic progression.

BMC Ophthalmology

8 9 Yet studies that tried to elucidate these environmental factors, such as accommodative demand associated with near-work tasks such as schoolwork, yielded mixed results.

BMJ Open

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing eye strain or myopia, use "near work" to specifically refer to activities that require intense focus at close range. For instance, suggest taking breaks during prolonged periods of "near work" to reduce eye fatigue.

Common error

Avoid attributing all eye strain solely to "near work". Other factors, like poor lighting, screen glare, and uncorrected vision problems, also significantly contribute to eye discomfort. Address these factors alongside managing "near work" activities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "near work" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig's examples show it referring to tasks requiring close visual focus, such as reading or computer use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

41%

News & Media

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Wiki

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "near work" is a common and grammatically correct term used to describe activities requiring close visual focus. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's frequently used in scientific, news, and academic contexts, particularly when discussing eye health and ergonomics. While it's crucial to use the term accurately, it's equally important to avoid overgeneralizing its role in eye strain, considering other contributing factors like lighting and screen settings. For alternatives, consider using phrases like "close work" or "detailed work" depending on the specific context. Taking frequent breaks and ensuring proper ergonomics are practical steps to mitigate potential eye strain from prolonged "near work".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

close work

Focuses on the proximity and detail required by the task, rather than the duration.

detailed work

Emphasizes the level of detail involved in the task.

close-range tasks

Highlights the short distance at which the tasks are performed.

visually demanding tasks

Focuses on the strain the task places on the eyes.

intensive reading

Specifically refers to reading that requires focused attention.

computer use

Implies working on a computer, a common type of near work.

close study

Suggests a concentrated effort of learning or analysis.

screen time

Specifically relates to the time spent looking at screens.

desk work

Indicates work done at a desk, often involving near tasks.

indoor activities

Encompasses a broader range of activities, including near work.

FAQs

What are some activities that qualify as "near work"?

"Near work" includes activities such as reading, writing, using a computer, and any other task that requires focusing on objects close to your eyes.

How can I reduce eye strain from prolonged "near work"?

Take frequent breaks using the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Also, ensure proper lighting and adjust your screen settings.

Is there evidence that "near work" causes nearsightedness?

Some studies suggest a link between prolonged "near work" and an increased risk of myopia, especially in children. However, genetics and other environmental factors also play a role. Consider also the evidence that outdoor activities have a protective effect.

What can I say instead of "near work"?

You can use alternatives like "close work", "detailed work", or "close-range tasks" depending on the context.