1 B2 neutral
To find an alternative approach that bypasses an obstacle, rule, or difficulty (British English variant of 'work around').
"We had to work round the planning restrictions to get the extension approved."
separable
work round
B2 neutral separable transitive
British English variant of 'work around' — to find a solution that avoids or overcomes an obstacle or limitation.
In plain English
To find a way to do something even though there's a problem stopping you (British spelling of 'work around').
What does "work round" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B1 neutral
To adjust plans to accommodate someone else's schedule or constraints.
"We'll work round your availability — just let us know when you're free."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To go around an obstacle in order to progress — transparent.
Actually means
To find a way to do something even though there's a problem stopping you (British spelling of 'work around').
Usage tip
This is the British English spelling of 'work around'. Both forms are fully acceptable; British speakers and writers tend to prefer 'work round', while American speakers prefer 'work around'. The noun form in British English is also typically 'workaround'. Meaning and usage are identical to 'work around'.
Words that pair with "work round"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
problem issue restriction schedule limitation obstacle
How to conjugate "work round"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
work round
I/you/we/they
3rd person
works round
he/she/it
Past simple
worked round
yesterday
Past participle
worked round
have + pp
-ing form
working round
continuous
Hear "work round" in the wild
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