the work in progress

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the work in progress" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It refers to any task or project that is still ongoing and not yet completed. You can use this phrase in various contexts, including work-related emails, project updates, or discussions about ongoing tasks. Example: "The team is currently focused on the work in progress, which involves conducting market research and developing a new product." In this sentence, "the work in progress" refers to the ongoing project or task being worked on by the team.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

A preview function can quickly display the work in progress.

The New York Times - Tech

J. has recommenced work on W. in P". — the work in progress.

The New Yorker

On a recent Tuesday night, Mr. Bukiet took stock of the work in progress.

The New York Times

A man standing at his side observes the work in progress.

The New York Times - Arts

The work in progress, which he says is about 'hotels', faces the wall.

The Guardian

Parts of the work in progress appeared in book form during the nineteen-eighties.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

TURBOTOME offers the user a chance to see the WORK-IN-PROGRESS.

The New Yorker

There was something Patrick had to get down in the work-in-progress, before he forgot.

The New Yorker

We immediately jettisoned the work-in-progress and wrote the novel very quickly.

The Guardian - Film

Each day he would drop off an envelope with the work-in-progress inside, and a note.

The Guardian - Books

And the lush complexity and detail of the work-in-progress excerpts from Mr. Jasperse's new "Pure" were simply gorgeous.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing collaborative projects, use "the work in progress" to keep stakeholders informed about ongoing efforts and evolving outcomes.

Common error

Avoid using "the work in progress" without providing specific details about the project or task. Ensure your audience understands what you're referring to.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the work in progress" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes something that is currently under development or in a state of being created. Ludwig provides numerous examples illustrating this usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

8%

Academic

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the work in progress" is a common noun phrase used to describe projects or tasks that are currently underway. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently used in various contexts, from news and media to scientific research. When using this phrase, ensure you provide sufficient context to clarify the specific project you are referencing. While alternatives like ""the current project"" or ""the ongoing development"" exist, "the work in progress" remains a clear and effective way to communicate that something is actively being developed but not yet finalized.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the work underway

Emphasizes the active state of the task or activity.

the ongoing development

Stresses the continuous nature of the improvement or expansion effort.

the in-development item

Highlights that the item is currently under development.

the current project

Focuses on the present and ongoing state of a specific undertaking.

the unfinished task

Emphasizes the incomplete nature of the activity.

the uncompleted endeavor

Draws attention to the fact that the effort is not yet finalized.

the developing plan

Highlights the evolution and progress of a strategic initiative.

the evolving creation

Suggests a creative endeavor that is gradually taking shape.

the process in motion

Highlights the dynamic and continuous nature of the proceedings.

the emerging product

Focuses on the gradual appearance and formation of a tangible result.

FAQs

How can I use "the work in progress" in a sentence?

You can use "the work in progress" to describe a project or task that is currently being developed or completed. For example, "The team is reviewing "the work in progress" to ensure it meets the client's requirements."

What are some alternatives to "the work in progress"?

Alternatives include "the current project", "the ongoing development", or "the work underway". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "works in progress" instead of "the work in progress"?

While "the work in progress" refers to a specific project or task, "works in progress" can refer to multiple projects or tasks that are currently underway. The plural form is appropriate when discussing several distinct items.

What's the difference between "the work in progress" and "the finished product"?

"The work in progress" describes something that is still being developed, while "the finished product" refers to the completed and finalized version. One is in the state of creation, the other is in its final form.