work on the computer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'work on the computer' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in a variety of contexts, for example: I spent the afternoon working on the computer.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

"Me crying while trying to work on the computer".

The Guardian - Books

In the graphic design department, you were expected to produce your work on the computer.

The New York Times

I'll never go to work on the computer unless I have ideas first.

The New Yorker

"I have to wear sunglasses when I work on the computer," he said.

The New York Times

BORROWED COMPUTER Then I may do a little work on the computer; check my e-mails, stuff like that.

The New York Times

COMPUTER OR A MOVIE At night I work on the computer, or I just watch a movie, here in my place.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

How can I make sure no one working on the computer can get into my personal information?

The New York Times - Tech

Mr. Jackson, who is at work on the computer-generated effects for the second installment in the Tolkien trilogy, said he and other members of the "Lord of the Rings" creative team had stayed up all night at his house in New Zealand to watch the nomination announcement.

The New York Times

The participants then started to work on the computer-based office simulation for 30 min.

Empirical Research in Vocational Education and Training

"I was going in some nights at 3 a.m. to work on the computers," she recalls.

Forbes

"You should see him working on the computer," said Pete Trapani, a co-worker.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the type of "work" being done, be specific (e.g., "work on the computer designing graphics" instead of just "work on the computer").

Common error

Avoid using "work on the computer" as a generic statement. Specify the nature of the work to provide clarity and context to the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "work on the computer" primarily functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of performing tasks using a computer. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely used. Its function is to describe the activity of using a computer for various purposes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "work on the computer" is a grammatically correct and very common phrase used to describe performing tasks on a computer. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and broad applicability. While it is widely used across various contexts, including news, academia, and business, providing specific details about the type of work being done enhances clarity. Alternatives such as "use a computer" or "perform tasks on a computer" can be considered for nuanced expression. The phrase has a neutral register and aims to convey the action of using a computer for a specific purpose.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

perform tasks on a computer

Focuses on the action of completing jobs using a computer.

use a computer

This alternative focuses on the act of using a computer without necessarily implying work.

do computer-based tasks

Similar to performing tasks but specifies the tasks are computer-based.

operate a computer

This suggests a more technical or skilled interaction with the computer.

engage with a computer

Implies a broader interaction, not just work-related tasks.

utilize computer programs

This alternative highlights using software for specific tasks.

handle digital tasks

This is a broader term that includes work on other devices besides computers.

be active on a computer

Suggests any kind of activity not necessarily limited to work.

interact with technology

This phrase is even broader, including any type of technological interaction.

code

This alternative applies only in software development scenarios.

FAQs

How can I use "work on the computer" in a sentence?

You can use "work on the computer" to describe tasks involving computer usage, such as "I need to "work on the computer" to finish my report" or "She spends several hours a day "working on the computer"".

What are some alternatives to "work on the computer"?

Alternatives include "use a computer", "operate a computer", or "perform tasks on a computer", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "work on the computer" or "work with the computer"?

Both phrases are acceptable, but "work on the computer" typically implies performing tasks directly on the computer, while "work with the computer" suggests using the computer as a tool or in conjunction with other things.

What kind of work is usually implied by the phrase "work on the computer"?

The phrase suggests a variety of tasks, including writing, designing, programming, researching, or communicating. The specific type of work should be clear from the context.