To spend time and effort improving, developing, or completing something.
To be doing something to make it better or to finish it.
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
To spend time and effort completing or progressing a task or project.
"I've been working on this report since Monday and it's finally nearly done."
"We are working on it."
— Commonly used across contexts; e.g. frequently cited in NASA mission communications during the Apollo programme, 1960s–70s.
To try to improve a skill, habit, or personal quality.
"My teacher told me I need to work on my listening skills before the exam."
To try to persuade someone or influence their opinion over time.
"She hasn't agreed yet, but I'll keep working on her."
To apply work 'on' a surface or object — the figurative sense is a natural, well-established extension.
To be doing something to make it better or to finish it.
One of the most common phrasal verbs in English. Used in virtually all registers and contexts — from casual conversation to professional writing. Can refer to concrete tasks ('work on a report') or abstract areas ('work on your confidence'). Also used in the sense of trying to persuade someone ('I'll work on him').
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Listen to native speakers using "work on" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
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