Phrasal verbs "work on" vs "work out"

Differences between work on and work out

Work on usually means to focus on a task or project and make progress towards completing it, whereas work out generally means to exercise or solve a problem.

Meanings and Definitions: work on vs work out

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Work on

  • 1Improve or develop.

    Scientists are WORKING ON genetically modified crops and foods.

Work out

  • 1End nicely.

    Things were going wrong for them but fortunately it all WORKED OUT in the end.

  • 2Find the answer or solution.

    I couldn't WORK OUT all the answers to the crossword puzzle.

Usage Examples: work on, work out in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

work on

Example

She needs to work on her presentation skills.

Example

He works on his painting every day.

work out

Example

Can you work out this math problem for me?

Example

She works out the solution to the puzzle quickly.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Work on

To move forward or advance towards completing a task or project.

Example

She spent the whole day making progress on her research paper and finally finished it.

To invest time, energy, or resources into achieving a goal or completing a task.

Example

He decided to put more effort into his studies to improve his grades.

To concentrate or direct one's attention towards a specific task or objective.

Example

She needed to focus on her presentation to deliver it effectively to the audience.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Work out

Physical activity that improves or maintains health and fitness.

Example

He goes to the gym every morning to exercise and stay in shape.

To solve or find a solution to a problem or challenge.

Example

They needed to figure out how to fix the broken machine before the deadline.

To organize or arrange something in a systematic or orderly way.

Example

She spent the weekend sorting out her closet and donating old clothes to charity.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “out”

Differences in work on vs work out: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: work on or work out?

In daily conversation, people use work out more often than work on. This is because work out is used for physical exercise and also for solving problems. Work on is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about making progress on a specific task or project. So, while both phrases are used, work out is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of work on and work out

Work on and work out are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of work on and work out

The tone of work on and work out can differ based on context. Work on often carries a determined or focused tone when related to completing a task or project, while work out typically has a practical and active tone, especially when referring to physical exercise or problem-solving.

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