working through the list

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "working through the list" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the process of systematically addressing or completing items on a list. Example: "I am currently working through the list of tasks that need to be completed by the end of the day."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

I began working through the list, poring over Who's Who in America and Harvard class reunion reports for family information.

The Guardian - Opinion

He did two crossword puzzles a day, sometimes more, working through the list of clues in strict order, as if to remember where he was.

The New York Times - Science

The move follows confirmation that UK tax authorities had also begun eagerly working through the list looking for possible evidence of discrepancies in British offshore depositors' tax affairs.

The Guardian - Business

The Financial Services Authority is methodically working through the list of remaining building societies to ensure that they are strong enough to withstand the current financial storm.

The Guardian - Business

But at the time I didn't know that, and tried to make the feeling stop by working through the list of things I thought were the source of my fears: my impending dental bills, my loans and my future.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Next, the instructor proposed to work through the list of student ideas and began by pointing out that there was a wide diversity of answers and that some of them contradicted each other.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

At the current rate of progress it would take 50 years to work through the list.

Vice

As I worked through the list of techniques I'd collected, the post became so long that I had to split it in half.

Huffington Post

In addition to your own perspective, you may also like to involve loved ones or trusted colleagues to understand how many of these symptoms and habits they habitually observe in you (or at least think about what they might say as you work through the list).

Huffington Post

Having worked through the list of samples, monkeys worked through the list of choices.

Cerebral Cortex

Don't just mindlessly work through the list of questions mentioned above.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "working through the list", ensure that the context clearly indicates a systematic and sequential approach to addressing items on a defined list. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "working through the list" without explicitly mentioning or implying the list being referenced. Without a clear reference, the phrase lacks context and can confuse the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "working through the list" functions as a verbal phrase describing the action of systematically addressing or processing items on a list. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "working through the list" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that denotes a systematic and sequential approach to addressing items on a list. Ludwig confirms its validity and usability. Its neutral register allows for broad application, and it's particularly prevalent in news, scientific, and general contexts. When using this phrase, clarity is key: always ensure the context clearly references the specific list being addressed. Alternatives include "processing the checklist" or "systematically addressing the items", offering subtle variations in meaning. By following these guidelines, writers can effectively and accurately use "working through the list" in their communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

processing the checklist

Focuses on a structured method, implying a systematic approach similar to a to-do format.

systematically addressing the items

Highlights the structured and methodical approach.

progressing through the inventory

Implies advancement in dealing with a series of objects or tasks.

tackling each point

Emphasizes individual handling of distinct issues or items on a list.

advancing step-by-step down the roster

Highlights incremental forward movement through a sequence.

handling the items one by one

Emphasizes individual treatment within a procedure.

methodically executing the tasks

Stresses precision and order in carrying out a sequence of actions.

completing the lineup item after item

Stresses fulfillment and sequential execution.

resolving each entry

Focuses on reaching a conclusion or fix for individual issues.

checking off the elements

Suggests verification or confirmation as the items are addressed.

FAQs

How can I use "working through the list" in a sentence?

Use "working through the list" to describe a methodical process of addressing items sequentially, such as, "The team is "working through the list" of customer complaints to improve satisfaction."

What are some alternatives to "working through the list"?

Alternatives include "processing the checklist", "systematically addressing the items", or "progressing through the inventory", each conveying a slightly different nuance of systematic progression.

Is it better to say "working through the list" or "working on the list"?

"Working through the list" implies a more comprehensive and sequential approach, addressing each item in order. "Working on the list" suggests a less structured engagement, potentially focusing on specific items without necessarily completing the entire list.

How does "working through the list" differ from "reviewing the list"?

"Working through the list" suggests active engagement and action on each item, while "reviewing the list" implies a more passive assessment or inspection without necessarily taking direct action on the items.