works

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "works" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used as both a noun (e.g. "He is an expert in his works") or a verb (e.g. "She works hard every day").

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I suppose I appealed more to the working-class man, the people who worked in the meat works and the factories," he said in 2007, after announcing his intention to leave New Zealand to play overseas.

The Guardian - Sport

It's enigmatic and open to interpretation, and is the cover that works so well for The Endless River".

The Guardian - Music

It works for me!

The New York Times

"Sometimes it works.

The New York Times

A Department for Transport spokesman said: "It is extremely disappointing that Network Rail's engineering works have overrun and will affect travellers during this festive season, passengers will be rightly annoyed.

The Guardian - Business

One commuter, Anna Roberts, who works in Victoria, south-west London, was stuck on a Brighton to London train well after 11am.

The Guardian

He works hard.

The New York Times - Sports

Of course, this is exactly the way the tax code works now: tax rates rise at certain income thresholds, meaning that when you get to a certain income level, the government takes more of every dollar you earn.

The Economist

It works for them.

The New York Times

Far from bolstering stability, Saudi policy actively works against western attempts to end the standoff with non-Arab Iran – still the natural regional partner for London and Washington that it was before the 1979 revolution.

The Guardian

MARIA CAULFIELD, 40 TORY, LEWES A nurse at the Royal Marsden hospital in London, where she is a research sister leading a team in breast cancer research, Caulfield is also an owner and shareholder of Lewes football club and a non-executive director of the local housing charity BHT Sussex, which works to prevent homelessness.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "works" to describe a process or system, ensure the context clearly indicates what is performing the action and what the desired outcome is. For example, specify "the software works" instead of just "it works" for clarity.

Common error

While "works" is versatile, avoid overuse in technical writing. Opt for more precise terms like "functions", "operates", or "executes" to convey specific actions or processes, which will lend greater accuracy and professionalism to your writing.

Linguistic Context

The word "works" functions primarily as a verb, denoting action, operation, or effectiveness. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a valid and commonly used term in English, exemplified in contexts where something is functioning correctly or producing a desired outcome. It can also function as a noun, especially in plural, denoting creations or efforts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the word "works" is a highly versatile and frequently used term in the English language, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Functioning both as a verb and a noun, it is commonly used to denote action, operation, effectiveness, or creative output. Its neutral register and broad applicability make it suitable for diverse contexts, ranging from formal business communications to informal everyday conversations. While "works" is generally correct and widely accepted, be mindful of overusing it in technical writing; consider more precise alternatives to enhance clarity and professionalism. Examples from Ludwig's database highlight its prevalence across authoritative sources, making it a reliable choice for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

functions

Replaces "works" by focusing on the operational aspect or intended purpose.

operates

Indicates the manner or process of functioning, providing a more technical tone.

is effective

Emphasizes the success or positive outcome of something.

is functioning

Highlights the current state of being in operation, emphasizing the present continuous action.

is performing

Focuses on the execution or carrying out of a task or function.

is in action

Suggests dynamism and the ongoing nature of the function.

produces results

Highlights the outcome or effect of an action.

yields benefits

Emphasizes the advantageous or positive outcomes.

is practical

Focuses on the suitability and usefulness of the subject.

is active

Highlights the participation or involvement of the subject in doing something.

FAQs

How can I use "works" in a sentence?

"Works" can function as a verb, indicating an action or operation (e.g., "The system works efficiently"), or as a noun, referring to creations or efforts (e.g., "The artist's works are displayed in the gallery").

What are some alternatives to the word "works"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "functions", "operates", "is effective", or "is functioning".

Is it correct to say "the plan works"?

Yes, "the plan works" is grammatically correct and commonly used to indicate that a plan is effective or successful. You could also say "the plan "is effective"" or "the plan "succeeds"" for similar meanings.

What's the difference between "works" and "is working"?

"Works" generally describes a consistent or habitual action or state, while "is working" indicates a current, ongoing action. For example, "The machine works well" implies a general capability, while "The machine is working on the project" implies it's currently in operation.