put it to work

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "put it to work" is a commonly used phrase in written English, and means to start using something to achieve a result.
For example: "I bought a new computer, so I'm going to put it to work by creating a website for my business."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A Princeton degree is a tool; its real value comes from how alumni put it to work.

Princeton University

In order to experience the benefits of its balancing effects, you've got to put it to work.

Huffington Post

Mr. Sepil found a rig and put it to work.

The New York Times

Clarify your purpose, and put it to work.

Harvard Business Review

"Then we take it out and put it to work: target hardening".

The New Yorker

Or put it to work for you to create a different kind of future?

The New York Times

He had made some money, & put it to work: it grew & multiplied.

The New Yorker

"Put it to work," she said, is just a euphemism for borrowing.

The New York Times

And Matzen and co have put it to work studying 100 million photos posted on Instagram.

MIT Technology Review

Put it to work for you.' " Professor Warren said, mimicking the ads.

The New York Times

They borrowed money and put it to work to sustain their profitability.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you have a resource or skill, actively seek opportunities to "put it to work" to achieve your goals. Don't let potential go to waste; identify how it can be applied practically.

Common error

Avoid assuming "put it to work" only applies to tangible items. It can refer to skills, knowledge, or even abstract concepts. Broaden your understanding of what can be 'put to work' to fully leverage your resources.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "put it to work" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of utilizing something—whether a tool, skill, or resource—for a practical purpose. Ludwig examples demonstrate its usage in diverse scenarios where something is being actively employed to achieve a specific result.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Academia

3%

Science

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "put it to work" serves as a versatile and common idiom, used to describe the act of actively employing a resource, skill, or piece of knowledge towards a specific end. Ludwig's AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically sound and is utilized across many contexts, including academia, news and media, as well as more informal writings. It's crucial to grasp that the phrase applies to both tangible and intangible assets, maximizing their usefulness. When writing, be mindful that there are several alternatives to "put it to work", like "utilize it effectively" or "make practical use of it", which each carry slightly nuanced meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

utilize it effectively

This suggests using something in a way that maximizes its potential and impact.

make practical use of it

Focuses on the real-world application and functionality of the item in question.

apply it in practice

This alternative indicates using the object or skill in a real situation or scenario.

employ it purposefully

Emphasizes that the use of something is intentional and has a clear objective.

harness its capabilities

Implies understanding and leveraging the inherent strengths and abilities of something.

put it into action

Focuses on moving from planning to actively doing or implementing something.

leverage its potential

Highlights maximizing the possible benefits or advantages something can offer.

exercise it actively

This alternative implies an energetic or deliberate application of a skill or tool.

implement it strategically

This suggests a well-thought-out and planned execution of something to achieve a specific goal.

exploit its resources

Focuses on utilizing available resources, often with an implication of efficiency.

FAQs

How can I use "put it to work" in a sentence?

You can use "put it to work" to describe using something for a specific purpose. For instance, "I learned a new skill and now I'm looking for ways to "put it to work".".

What are some alternatives to "put it to work"?

Alternatives include "utilize it effectively", "make practical use of it", or "apply it in practice". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "put it to work for you"?

Yes, "put it to work for you" is a correct and common variation. It emphasizes the benefit or advantage gained by using something, as in "Let your savings "put it to work" for you by investing wisely."

What does it mean to "put your skills to work"?

To "put your skills to work" means to actively use your abilities and knowledge in a practical way, often in a professional or productive context. It implies applying your expertise to achieve a specific outcome or goal.