the work at hand

USAGE SUMMARY

"the work at hand" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to the task or project that needs to be completed. For example: "We need to focus on the work at hand and get this done quickly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Now, let us finish the work at hand.

The New York Times

The work at hand here is Bach's expansive "St.

The New York Times

"His focus continues to be the work at hand".

The New York Times

Faces burnished and cryptic as Indians, eyes glinting at the work at hand.

The New York Times - Books

The work at hand may have been necessary, but it was also impossible.

The New Yorker

But as a paralegal, she often has relevant knowledge of the work at hand.

The New York Times

Whenever he begins a project, Mr. Romanek carefully selects photographs to inspire the work at hand.

The New York Times

From the outset, his work has rooted in the formal properties of the work at hand.

The New York Times - Arts

And you would get on with the work at hand, because he was a busy camper.

The New York Times

What is on Cohen's mind now is family, friends, and the work at hand.

The New Yorker

During the walkabouts you're more inclined to ponder the oddness of the undertaking than to consider the work at hand.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the work at hand" to clearly define the immediate task or project, promoting focus and efficiency within a team or individual effort. This helps avoid distractions and ensures everyone is aligned on the current priority.

Common error

Avoid using "the work at hand" when referring to long-term strategic goals. It's best suited for describing immediate tasks or objectives, not overarching visions. Using it inappropriately can create confusion about priorities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the work at hand" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object in a sentence. It identifies a specific task or project that requires immediate attention or effort. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the work at hand" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase that effectively directs focus to the immediate task or project. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. Predominantly found in "News & Media" and "Science" contexts, it maintains a neutral register suitable for broad audiences. To maximize its impact, use "the work at hand" to clarify current priorities, but avoid applying it to long-term strategic visions. Consider alternatives like "the task at hand" or "the matter at hand" to subtly alter the emphasis as needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the task at hand

Substitutes "work" with "task", emphasizing a specific duty or assignment.

the job at hand

Replaces "work" with "job", focusing on a specific piece of work often for pay.

the matter at hand

Uses "matter" instead of "work", highlighting the issue or situation being dealt with.

the business at hand

Replaces "work" with "business", stressing the practical or commercial aspects.

the project at hand

Specifies "work" as a "project", indicating a planned undertaking with a specific goal.

the assignment at hand

Emphasizes a specific task that has been assigned or delegated.

the undertaking at hand

Uses "undertaking" to highlight the effort and commitment involved.

the endeavor at hand

Replaces "work" with "endeavor", stressing a serious or determined effort.

the operation at hand

Specifies "work" as an "operation", often implying a systematic or coordinated activity.

the activity at hand

Generalizes "work" to any form of action or involvement.

FAQs

How can I use "the work at hand" in a sentence?

You can use "the work at hand" to refer to the task or project currently being addressed. For instance, "Let's focus on "the work at hand" and complete it efficiently."

What's a good alternative to "the work at hand"?

Alternatives include "the task at hand", "the matter at hand", or "the business at hand". Each emphasizes a slightly different aspect of the immediate focus.

Is it appropriate to use "the work at hand" in formal writing?

Yes, "the work at hand" is suitable for formal writing. It's a clear and professional way to indicate the current task or focus, and as Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct.

How does "the work at hand" differ from "the bigger picture"?

"The work at hand" refers to immediate tasks, while "the bigger picture" concerns long-term goals and strategic vision. Focusing on "the work at hand" ensures short-term progress, whereas considering the bigger picture aligns these tasks with overarching objectives.