work on
0 antonyms and opposites of work on, grouped by meaning.
Phrasal verb — To spend time and effort improving something or making progress with a task or project.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. phrasal verb
To spend time and effort improving something or making progress with a task or project.
“She's been working on her thesis all summer.”
2. phrasal verb
To repair or service something, especially a machine or vehicle.
“There's a mechanic working on the van outside.”
How to use work on
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Neutral in all senses; the persuasion sense is informal and can sound slightly manipulative.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between "work on" and "work at"?
"Work on" takes a project or object you are actively changing — work on a report, work on the car. "Work at" stresses sustained effort at a skill or quality, often over a long period — work at your patience, work at staying calm. With skills the two overlap, and both are acceptable.
What is the difference between "work on" and "work out"?
"Work on" means to put effort into improving something. "Work out" means to solve or calculate, to exercise, or to end successfully. "I'm working on the numbers" means I am still going; "I worked out the numbers" means I got the answer.
What does "working on myself" mean?
It means deliberately trying to improve your own habits, mental health or character, usually through therapy, reflection or new routines. It is a common phrase in relationships and self-help contexts.