works independently

USAGE SUMMARY

"works independently" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe something that can be done without help from someone else. For example: "This project requires a self-motivated individual who can work independently."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The Clipboard works independently of any specific program.

The New York Times - Tech

The software update is free and works independently of the Netflix service.

The New York Times - Tech

The beauty of this arrangement is that it works independently of the BMW's propulsion system.

The New York Times

Everyone works independently, but you have the opportunity to share ideas and socialize.

The New York Times

He later sold it and now works independently, using the same techniques.

The New York Times

"You're going against human nature here, so you need something that works independently of that".

The New York Times - Tech

The group maintains close ties to the Taliban, but often works independently.

The New York Times

She works independently, without the interference of an agency or a pimp.

The Economist

Deven Ghelani works independently through Policy in Practice and the Welfare Reform Club to support implementation of policy reforms.

The Guardian

The other part of the financial world works independently of the markets, for instance lawyers and those in M&A.

The Guardian - Opinion

There is a tiny little pouch in most writers' brains that works independently without permission or approval.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a person's work style, use "works independently" to emphasize their self-reliance and ability to complete tasks without constant supervision. For example, "She is a valuable team member because she not only collaborates well but also "works independently" to meet deadlines."

Common error

Avoid using "works independently" when the task inherently requires collaboration. While someone might execute their portion of a project autonomously, stating they "work independently" on a team-based assignment can be misleading. For example, saying someone "works independently" on an open source project is not the best wording, as the core idea of it is collaboration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "works independently" primarily functions as a verb phrase, indicating the manner in which someone or something performs tasks. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase describes the capability to function autonomously without needing external assistance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

53%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "works independently" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe the ability to perform tasks autonomously. As Ludwig AI indicates, its versatility is evident across diverse fields like news, science, and business. Related phrases include "operates autonomously" and "functions separately", each emphasizing particular aspects of self-reliance. To ensure effective use, it's crucial to apply it in contexts where autonomy is genuinely applicable and to avoid misinterpreting its scope. The frequency and authoritative sources from which this phrase is drawn confirm its widespread acceptance and professional relevance. Its neutral to professional tone makes it appropriate for various communication settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

operates autonomously

Emphasizes self-governance and lack of external control.

undertakes independently

Highlights the initiative and self-direction in starting a project.

functions separately

Highlights the distinct and non-integrated nature of the operation.

acts on its own

Focuses on the self-directed action without assistance.

carries out independently

This phrase emphasizes that someone is able to perform an action or task without any help from others.

handles independently

This phrase highlights someone's ability to manage or deal with something without assistance.

performs unaided

Stresses the absence of help during the execution.

pursues individually

Focuses on the individual effort in following a goal or aim.

executes solo

Informal; emphasizes individual execution.

manages single-handedly

Highlights the ability to manage or control single-handedly without assistance from anyone else.

FAQs

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

You can use "works independently" to describe someone or something that operates without needing assistance. For example, "The software module "works independently" of the main system" or "He "works independently" as a consultant".

What are some synonyms for "works independently"?

Alternatives to "works independently" include "operates autonomously", "functions separately", or "acts on its own", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "works independently" or "works alone"?

"Works independently" emphasizes self-reliance and the ability to manage tasks without supervision. "Works alone" simply indicates a lack of collaboration, which might not imply the same level of competence or self-direction. Therefore, it depends on the context and what aspect you want to highlight. The first has a more positive meaning.

What's the difference between "works independently" and "works individually"?

While both phrases suggest a degree of autonomy, "works individually" focuses more on the separate or isolated nature of the work, whereas "works independently" emphasizes the capability to self-manage and make decisions without needing oversight. When you are saying that someone "works individually", you are only describing the way that person prefers to approach assignments.