works in progress

USAGE SUMMARY

"works in progress" is a common phrase used in written English.
It is typically used to describe things that are not yet completed, but are in the process of being worked on. For example: "We are still working on the project, but the team has made considerable progress - it is a work in progress."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

We're all works in progress.

The New York Times

Both remain works in progress.

The New York Times - Sports

They are works in progress.

The New York Times - Arts

Others are works in progress.

The Guardian - Travel

Are these paintings works in progress?

The New York Times

Both productions remain works in progress.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

Two choreographers offer preview peeks at works-in-progress.

The New York Times

Completed pieces vie with works-in-progress for shelf space.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

In Bogotá, local police often stop to ask questions and admire works-in-progress.

The Economist

JR: We are all works-in-progress.

Huffington Post

Review: Six opera works-in-progress, all terrific, from the Industry.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "works in progress" when referring to multiple items or projects that are currently being developed or refined. It accurately conveys the state of incompletion while suggesting ongoing effort.

Common error

Avoid using "works in progress" when referring to a single item. In such cases, use the singular form, "work in progress". For example, say "This painting is a work in progress", not "This painting is works in progress".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "works in progress" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a plural noun. It refers to multiple projects, items, or tasks that are currently under development but not yet completed. Ludwig AI validates this through numerous examples across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Arts

22%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

12%

Wiki

10%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "works in progress" is a versatile and frequently used term, as validated by Ludwig AI, referring to multiple projects or items currently under development. It functions as a noun phrase with a neutral register, making it appropriate for various contexts, including news, arts, business, and science. When using this phrase, ensure the plural form aligns with multiple items and avoid using it for a single item, which would be a "work in progress". Alternatives such as "ongoing projects" or "in development" can be used to add variety to your writing. Remember that, metaphorically, we can consider all people "continuously developing" as "works in progress".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in development

Emphasizes the stage of advancement and refinement.

under development

Similar to "in development" but can also imply a more formal process.

ongoing projects

Emphasizes the continuous nature of the work being done.

in the making

Highlights the process of creation or formation.

unfinished tasks

Highlights the incomplete status of the work.

developing items

Focuses on the process of growth and advancement.

incomplete assignments

Specifically refers to tasks that are not yet finished.

current endeavors

Highlights ongoing efforts and pursuits.

under construction

Suggests active building or creation.

being finalized

Indicates that the work is nearing completion.

FAQs

How can I use "works in progress" in a sentence?

You can use "works in progress" to describe projects or items that are currently under development or not yet finished. For example, "The artist displayed several "unfinished paintings" as "works in progress"."

What's the difference between "work in progress" and "works in progress"?

"Work in progress" refers to a single item or project that is not yet complete, while "works in progress" refers to multiple items or projects in the same state. For instance, "My novel is a work in progress", versus "These sculptures are works in progress".

What are some alternatives to saying "works in progress"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "ongoing projects", "in development", or "unfinished tasks" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it correct to use "works in progress" to describe people?

Yes, it is often used metaphorically to describe people who are continuously learning and growing. For example, "We are all "continuously developing" and can be considered "works in progress"."