to be worked

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to be worked" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are referring to something that needs to be processed, handled, or completed. Example: "The project is still in its early stages and has yet to be worked on by the team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Kinks were still to be worked out.

The New York Times

Leave that to be worked out later".

The New Yorker

That dynamic needs to be worked upon".

The New York Times

This needs to be worked on".

Independent

Some details remained to be worked out.

The New York Times

Details remain to be worked out.

The New York Times

Everything would have to be worked through.

The Guardian

But this had to be worked up.

The Guardian

Details still need to be worked out.

The Washington Post

Key details remain to be worked out.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

But there were kinks to be worked out.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to be worked" when indicating that effort, modification, or development is required for a task or issue. This phrasing is suitable across a wide range of formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on passive voice with "to be worked" as it can make your writing sound weak or unclear. Instead, rephrase sentences to emphasize active agents where appropriate for a more direct and impactful style.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be worked" primarily functions as part of an infinitive construction, often used in passive voice to indicate that something requires action or effort. This is consistent with Ludwig's analysis and examples provided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to be worked" is a versatile infinitive construction commonly used to indicate the need for effort, modification, or development. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and appears frequently across various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business settings. While suitable for a broad range of applications, writers should be mindful of overusing passive constructions. Considering alternatives such as "to be addressed" or "to be handled" can enhance clarity and impact in writing. The phrase's widespread use and clear meaning, as validated by Ludwig, make it a valuable component of effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be addressed

Focuses on dealing with a problem or issue directly.

to be handled

Implies managing or dealing with something, often a task or situation.

to be processed

Highlights the need for a systematic series of actions to be performed.

to be resolved

Emphasizes finding a solution to a problem or conflict.

to be completed

Focuses on finishing a task or project.

to be improved

Highlights the need for enhancement or refinement.

to be refined

Emphasizes making something more subtle and effective.

to be developed

Suggests a process of growth or evolution.

to be attended to

Highlights the need for careful attention and action.

to be taken care of

Implies ensuring something is properly managed or maintained.

FAQs

How can I use "to be worked" in a sentence?

The phrase "to be worked" indicates that effort or attention is required. For instance, "The details still need "to be worked out"" or "This issue has "to be worked on" further".

What are some alternatives to "to be worked"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "to be addressed", "to be handled", or "to be processed".

Is it better to say "to be worked on" or "to be worked at"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but they carry slightly different connotations. "To be worked on" generally refers to tasks or projects, while "to be worked at" often implies continuous effort and dedication.

What does it mean when something "has to be worked through"?

When something "has to be worked through", it means that all aspects of it need to be carefully considered and dealt with systematically, often implying a complex or challenging process.