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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

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works you know

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "works you know" is not standard in written English and may be confusing without context.
It could be used in informal conversation to refer to familiar or common tasks or activities, but it lacks clarity in writing. Example: "When it comes to art, there are many different works you know that can inspire creativity."

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

Whatever works, you know?

"That's not how it works, you know, in any other realm of life.

News & Media

The New York Times

"But what I do is I sit with myself, and I say, 'Throw it out of your mind.' And it works, you know, it goes".

News & Media

The New Yorker

Every time you hear a new piece of music, your brain is filtering it through the works you know already, and the images, experiences, and words that it calls to mind.

"When I think about my life, the early works, you know, always you learn as a young artist to have a style you can follow, a certain line," Abramović says.

"If it works, you know 10% is enough," Clark says.

Science & Research

Science Magazine
Show more...

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

"When you start working you know nothing.

News & Media

Independent

It could work, you know.

News & Media

The Guardian

It's work, you know.

News & Media

The New York Times

It could have worked, you know?

News & Media

The Guardian

This fashion game is hard work, you know.

Show more...

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "works you know", ensure the context is clear. The listener or reader should have a reasonable understanding of what "works" refers to.

Common error

Avoid using "works you know" in academic papers, business reports, or other formal documents. The phrase's informality can undermine the credibility of your writing. Instead, opt for phrases like "functions as intended" or "is effective".

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

83%

Authority and reliability

3.8/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "works you know" typically functions as a conversational filler or a tag question. It's used to seek confirmation or shared understanding from the listener, often implying that the speaker believes the listener is already familiar with the subject matter. The Ludwig AI identifies the phrase as acceptable but informal.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "works you know" is a grammatically acceptable but informal expression used to seek confirmation or shared understanding, predominantly in casual conversation. Ludwig AI considers the phrase acceptable, although it's more suited for informal contexts and should be used sparingly in formal writing. When clarity is paramount, consider more precise alternatives. It's frequently found in news and media, but less common in formal or encyclopedic contexts. Remember to reserve "works you know" for situations where a relaxed, conversational tone is desired.

FAQs

How can I use "works you know" in a sentence?

You can use "works you know" in informal conversations to express that something is effective or functions in a certain way, assuming the listener understands the context. For example: "That's how the system "functions", you know."

What's a more formal way to say "works you know"?

Alternatives to "works you know" in formal settings include: "functions as intended", "operates effectively", or "is effective". These options provide greater clarity and maintain a professional tone.

Is it grammatically correct to say "works you know"?

Yes, "works you know" is grammatically acceptable, though informal. The verb "works" agrees with an implied subject (like "it" or "that"), and "you know" functions as a tag question seeking confirmation or shared understanding.

When is it appropriate to use "works you know"?

It is appropriate to use "works you know" in casual conversations, informal emails, or when writing dialogue for fictional characters. Avoid it in formal writing where precision and a professional tone are necessary.

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Source & Trust

83%

Authority and reliability

3.8/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: