work toward something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "work toward something" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing efforts or actions aimed at achieving a specific goal or objective. Example: "We need to work toward a more sustainable future for our planet."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

It may even encourage nations to work toward something broader.

The New York Times

"Maybe in the future we can work toward something that resembles a canopy," Hunter-Reay said.

The Guardian - Sport

We can make a sensible deal with Russia Lowerr strategic bomb inventories in return for the amendments in the ABM treaty that would let the Bush administration work toward something it believes we really need -- missile defense.

The New York Times

It's a concept akin to what the Columbia University psychologist Tory Higgins calls promotion and prevention that is, the decision to work toward something or to direct your energy toward avoiding something else.

The New Yorker

To work toward something for years, only to have it derailed by an unscrupulous superior or by malicious rumor, is a frightening prospect".

Science Magazine

The main point is to work toward something that's tangible and achievable.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

"You're working toward something together," he said.

The New York Times

He'll be working toward something".

The New York Times

She looks like she's working toward something.

The New Yorker

"I'm so grateful that she could see us working toward something," Mrs. Sousa said.

The New York Times

Because I am working toward something and have not yet arrived.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "work toward something", ensure the "something" is clearly defined or implied within the context. This provides clarity and prevents ambiguity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "work toward something" without specifying or implying what that "something" is. A vague "something" makes the sentence lack direction and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "work toward something" functions as a verb phrase indicating action directed at achieving a goal. As shown by Ludwig, this phrase is commonly used to express intent and effort toward a specific outcome.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "work toward something" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression for describing efforts made in the direction of a specific objective. Ludwig AI validates its common usage in news and media, though it is versatile enough for various contexts. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what the "something" is. Alternatives include "strive for something" and "aim for something", offering subtle variations in meaning. Overall, "work toward something" is a reliable and effective phrase for expressing intentional action towards a defined goal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

work towards a goal

More specific by replacing "something" with "a goal"

strive for something

Emphasizes a dedicated and forceful effort toward achieving a goal.

aim for something

Suggests a planned and intentional effort to reach a specified target.

pursue something

Implies actively following or seeking to reach a particular aim.

endeavor to achieve something

A more formal and emphatic way of expressing an attempt to accomplish something.

push for something

Suggests actively advocating for something, often in the face of opposition.

aspire to something

Highlights ambition and a strong desire to reach a high goal.

make progress on something

Focuses on the incremental advancement towards a specific objective.

try to reach something

General and simple term indicating an attempt to attain or achieve a particular thing.

advance toward something

Emphasizes forward movement and gradual progression toward a destination or target.

FAQs

What does it mean to "work toward something"?

To "work toward something" means to make effort and take actions that gradually help you achieve a particular goal or objective.

What can I say instead of "work toward something"?

You can use alternatives like "strive for something", "aim for something", or "pursue something" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "work towards something"?

Yes, "work towards something" is also grammatically correct and widely used. The choice between "toward" and "towards" is often a matter of regional preference (American vs. British English).

How can I use "work toward something" effectively in a sentence?

Ensure that the "something" you are working toward is clearly defined or easily understood from the surrounding context. For instance, "We need to work toward a more sustainable future" is clear, while "We need to work toward something" is vague.