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Phrasal verbs "work on" vs "work through"

Differences between work on and work through

Work on usually means to focus on a task or project and make progress towards completing it, whereas work through generally means to deal with and overcome a problem or difficulty.

Meanings and Definitions: work on vs work through

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Work on

  • 1Improve or develop.

    Scientists are WORKING ON genetically modified crops and foods.

Work through

  • 1Deal with, resolve a problem, often emotional.

    It took him a long time to WORK THROUGH his anger after he lost his job.

Usage Examples: work on, work through 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 through

Example

She needs to work through her feelings of insecurity.

Example

He works through his problems by talking to a therapist.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Work on

make progress on

To move forward or advance in a task or project.

Example

She spent the afternoon making progress on her painting and was happy with the results.

focus on

To concentrate or give attention to a particular task or goal.

Example

He needed to focus on his studies to pass the exam next week.

put effort into

To work hard or apply oneself to a task or project.

Example

They decided to put more effort into their marketing strategy to attract new customers.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Work through

deal with

To handle or manage a difficult situation or problem.

Example

She needed to deal with her anxiety before she could start the presentation.

overcome

To successfully solve or resolve a problem or difficulty.

Example

They worked together to overcome the technical issues and finish the project on time.

sort out

To clarify or resolve a confusing or complicated situation.

Example

They had a meeting to sort out the miscommunication and avoid future misunderstandings.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “on”

Phrasal Verbs with “through”

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

Frequency in Daily Use: work on or work through?

In daily conversation, people use work on more often than work through. This is because work on is used for more general tasks and projects, while work through is used for more specific situations where there is a problem or difficulty to overcome. So, while both phrases are used, work on is more common in everyday conversation.

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

Work on and work through 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 through

The tone of work on and work through can differ based on context. Work on often carries a positive and productive tone when related to tasks or projects, while work through typically has a more serious and challenging tone, especially when referring to dealing with problems or difficulties.

work on & work through: Synonyms and Antonyms

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