this works

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this works" is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used to express agreement or to indicate that something has been successful. For example: "I think we should try it this way - this works!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Evidently, this works.

The New York Times

This works brilliantly.

The New York Times - Magazine

This works two ways.

The New York Times - Sports

This works for her.

The New York Times - Arts

Sometimes, this works.

Forbes

"This works; this doesn't".

The New Yorker

This works in music.

The Economist

Mostly, this works.

The Economist

I hope this works.

The New York Times

"This works," he said.

The New York Times - Science

This works both ways.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this works" to confirm the practicality or efficacy of a method or solution, especially when providing instructions or recommendations.

Common error

In formal contexts, consider alternatives like "this is effective" or "this achieves the intended outcome" to maintain a professional tone. Avoid using "this works" repeatedly in academic or business reports.

Linguistic Context

"This works" functions primarily as a declarative statement asserting the effectiveness or functionality of a method, solution, or action. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. Examples show it used to confirm practicality.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

30%

News & Media

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "this works" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that conveys effectiveness or functionality. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a versatile phrase appearing across various contexts, from news articles to wikis. While it's best practice to use it judiciously in formal writing, opting for more professional alternatives, it remains a practical and direct way to affirm that something is successful. Its high frequency and neutral register make it a valuable tool in everyday communication and practical guidance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this is effective

Emphasizes the effectiveness of something.

this is successful

Highlights the success of an action or method.

this is functional

Indicates that something is working as intended.

this is operational

Suggests that something is up and running.

this is feasible

Implies that something is achievable or possible.

this gets results

Focuses on the outcome or impact of something.

this is yielding results

Similar to "this gets results", but with more emphasis on the continuing results.

this is producing the desired outcome

Focuses on the desired and expected results.

this achieves the intended purpose

More formal and emphasizes the alignment with the original goal.

this does the trick

More casual and indicates that something solves a problem.

FAQs

What does "this works" mean?

The phrase "this works" means that something is effective, successful, or achieves the desired result. It's a concise way to express that a particular method, solution, or approach is functional and practical.

How can I use "this works" in a sentence?

You can use "this works" to confirm the practicality or efficacy of something, such as "If you follow these steps, "this works" every time" or "This works because it addresses the root cause of the problem".

What are some alternatives to "this works"?

Alternatives to "this works" include "this is effective", "this is successful", or "this is functional" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "this works"?

It's appropriate to use "this works" in informal and semi-formal contexts to express that something is effective. However, in more formal settings, consider using alternatives that convey a more professional or academic tone.