work off a list

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "work off a list" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It means to complete tasks or complete a project in a systematic manner, following a predetermined list or plan. Example: "I have so much to do today, I need to work off a list to make sure I don't forget anything."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Spread the word!" At the end of the process, Mr. Obama was working off a list of four contenders.

The New York Times

D.D.S. members told H.R.W. that they worked off a list given to them by police officers and were paid between five thousand and fifty thousand pesos ($104 to $1,041) per target.

The New Yorker

The end result is that Obama, in many cases, is working off a list of candidates drawn up and considered acceptable by Republicans, rather than the other way around.

Huffington Post

"You work off a phone list.

The New York Times

The fact is almost everyone works off a mental list, which they edit over the summer.

The New York Times

Tottenham worked off a typically long list while Arsenal allowed themselves to be embroiled in two sagas, over Cesc Fábregas and Samir Nasri.

The Guardian - Sport

After taking the risk of starting out amid a sea of fried chicken and steak restaurants in the Lower East Side, the planter-size Dirt Candy was working off a two-month wait list for its nine tables before finally spreading out into more spacious digs at 86 Allen St. last winter.

Huffington Post

In his spare time, aides say, he calls the families of dead firefighters and police officers, working off a list of about 400 names, just to check in.

The New York Times

Authorities are working off a list of 176 potentially missing people, though many of those names likely are duplicates and they think that number will decrease.

The Guardian

When I went and got my first job at Apple and then my second job at Fujitsu, I was literally working off a list of all the things I need to do in order to become a software entrepreneur.

Forbes

When President Obama holds a news conference, he allots a certain amount of time for questions, working off a list of reporters he intends to call on.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "work off a list", ensure the list is well-defined and relevant to the tasks at hand for maximum efficiency.

Common error

Avoid becoming too fixated on the list. Be flexible and adapt your approach if unexpected challenges or opportunities arise. The list should guide, not dictate, your actions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "work off a list" functions as a verb phrase, indicating a method of operation or execution. According to Ludwig AI, it describes a systematic approach to completing tasks or projects by following a defined plan.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "work off a list" signifies a structured and methodical approach to task completion. According to Ludwig AI, it's a grammatically correct phrase used to describe systematically addressing items on a predefined list. While examples are currently unavailable, it indicates a practical way to ensure thoroughness and organization. Remember to balance structured adherence with necessary flexibility for optimal results. In essence, "work off a list" implies a commitment to efficiency and completeness in task management.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

follow a checklist

Focuses on using a structured checklist for completion.

operate from a schedule

Emphasizes adherence to a timed schedule.

execute a plan methodically

Highlights the methodical execution of a predefined plan.

systematically complete tasks

Stresses the organized and structured completion of tasks.

proceed according to a defined agenda

Implies a formal agenda is being followed.

work through a set of instructions

Highlights completing tasks via a set of instructions.

manage tasks using a protocol

Describes the use of a strict protocol for managing tasks.

address items on a to-do list

Specifies the items on a to-do list being addressed

tackle tasks from a prepared inventory

Implies a prepared list of tasks is being addressed.

adhere to a step-by-step guide

Suggests a commitment to follow all steps from a guide.

FAQs

How can I effectively "work off a list" in a project?

Start by prioritizing tasks, allocating realistic timeframes, and regularly reviewing your progress. Break down large tasks into smaller, manageable steps and mark them as complete to maintain momentum.

What does it mean to "work off a list"?

It means to systematically complete tasks or items from a pre-determined list, often in a sequential or prioritized manner, ensuring nothing is missed.

What are some alternatives to "work off a list"?

You can use alternatives like "follow a checklist", "operate from a schedule", or "systematically complete tasks" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to "work off a list" or improvise?

It depends on the situation. "Work off a list" is ideal for structured tasks requiring precision, while improvisation is better for creative or unpredictable scenarios. Often, a blend of both approaches works best.