work smoothly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'work smoothly' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate that something is working without any hiccups or hindrances. For example, "The new software update was installed and seems to be working smoothly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Did the process work smoothly?

The New York Times

This was supposed to work smoothly".

The New York Times

Things do not always work smoothly, they said.

The New York Times

This can work smoothly, but is more often messy.

The Economist

Its software must work smoothly with I.B.M.'s technology.

The New York Times

Nancy had a way of making everything work, and work smoothly.

The New York Times

Cohen reported to Cooper directly, and the two did not work smoothly together.

The New Yorker

The challenge is making the system we have work smoothly all the time.

The New York Times

But other artists say the efforts to involve faculty and students do not always work smoothly.

The New York Times - Arts

The first applications are interesting, but they don't always work smoothly.

The New York Times - Tech

And will they all work smoothly together, in a joined up fashion?

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a process or system, use "work smoothly" to convey that it operates without problems or interruptions. For instance, "The new workflow is designed to work smoothly, reducing delays and errors."

Common error

While "work smoothly" is versatile, avoid overusing it in very informal settings where simpler alternatives like "go well" or "run fine" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "work smoothly" typically functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, describing how an action is performed. As Ludwig AI confirms, it indicates that something operates without problems or interruptions. The examples provided by Ludwig clearly show this function in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Social Media

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "work smoothly" is a common and grammatically correct adverbial phrase used to describe processes, systems, or relationships that function without problems or interruptions. As Ludwig AI points out, its primary function is to assure efficiency and lack of complications. While versatile, it's best suited for neutral to professional contexts, as evidenced by its frequent appearance in news, media, and business sources. Alternatives such as "operate efficiently" or "function seamlessly" can provide similar meanings with slightly different nuances, allowing for more precise communication. The most important thing to keep in mind is that using "work smoothly" conveys a sense of ease and a lack of impediments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

operate efficiently

Focuses more on the efficiency aspect of the operation.

function seamlessly

Emphasizes the lack of noticeable transitions or interruptions.

run like clockwork

Implies precision and predictability in the operation.

proceed without a hitch

Highlights the absence of problems or obstacles.

go off without a snag

Similar to 'proceed without a hitch', emphasizing the absence of unexpected issues.

flow effortlessly

Suggests ease and natural progression in the process.

come off well

Describes a positive outcome or successful execution.

pan out well

Suggests a favorable result, often after some uncertainty.

be well-oiled

It suggests a process prepared in detail so that it works smoothly.

perform flawlessly

Highlights the precision and faultless execution.

FAQs

How can I use "work smoothly" in a sentence?

You can use "work smoothly" to describe processes, systems, or relationships that are functioning without problems. For example, "The new team members "work well together", ensuring the project will "work smoothly".

What are some alternatives to "work smoothly"?

Some alternatives include "operate efficiently", "function seamlessly", or "run like clockwork", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "work smoothly" or "work well"?

"Work well" is a more general term indicating effective performance. "Work smoothly" specifically implies that there are no interruptions or problems in the process. The best choice depends on the context.

What does it mean when something is described as "working smoothly"?

It means that the process or system is functioning effectively without any hitches, delays, or errors. It implies an efficient and harmonious operation.