WORK WITH

📖 Definition

To collaborate or cooperate with someone or something, often towards a common goal or purpose, effectively combining efforts and skills.

Examples in context

📖 Definition

To collaborate or cooperate with someone or something, often towards a common goal or purpose, effectively combining efforts and skills.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable
No
This phrasal verb cannot be split by an object.
Register
Neutral
Suitable for both formal and informal contexts.
Transitive
Yes
Requires a direct object, often a person or thing.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense Form Example
Present Simple work with I work with a great team on this project.
Past Simple worked with She worked with them for several years.
Present Continuous working with They are working with new partners to expand.
Present Perfect have worked with We've have worked with many international clients.

💡 When to Use

Collaborating on projects
Use when discussing participating in a collaborative effort, especially on projects or goals requiring multiple people.
Example: "I'm excited to work with you on this initiative."
Team dynamics
Use when referencing cooperation within a group, focusing on how individuals function together harmoniously.
Example: "It's vital to work with your teammates effectively."
Problem-solving
Use when addressing how cooperation can help solve problems, often in work or team settings.
Example: "To solve this issue, we need to work with other departments."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Incorrect preposition
❌ Wrong: I work in him on the project.
✅ Correct: I work with him on the project.
💡 Tip: Remember, 'work with' involves collaboration, so use 'with'.
Object omission
❌ Wrong: We can't work if these conditions.
✅ Correct: We can't work with these conditions.
💡 Tip: Include 'with' to clarify the object involved.
Unnecessary separation
❌ Wrong: He will work tirelessly with everyone to finish.
✅ Correct: He will work with everyone tirelessly to finish.
💡 Tip: Don't separate 'work' and 'with' unnecessarily.
Practice

WORK WITH - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

  1. Listen and repeat the audio as many times as needed to improve your pronunciation
  2. Use the audio as a dictation exercise, trying to write what you hear and understand
  3. Create a new sentence following the structure of the example sentences

Examples in Context

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

collaborate cooperate

Antonyms

oppose

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"She needed to ___ with him to finalize the plans."

work on
work with
work in
work under

"To truly achieve greatness, one must learn to work with the forces of nature, not against them, finding harmony within chaos."

In Context

In the early 1900s, renowned engineer Emily Warren Roebling played a crucial role in completing the Brooklyn Bridge. Her husband, Washington Roebling, was the chief engineer but fell ill during construction. Emily stepped in to work with the architectural plans, utilizing her knowledge and skills to communicate with the construction team. She worked with various experts to ensure the project stayed on schedule. Despite societal expectations of the time, Emily was instrumental in managing the project, tackling challenges that arose daily. Her ability to work with different people and coordinate efforts was key to overcoming numerous obstacles, such as material shortages and technical difficulties. Finally, in 1883, the Brooklyn Bridge was completed, becoming an iconic symbol of engineering prowess and determination. Emily's ability to work with those around her not only ensured the bridge's completion but also paved the way for women in engineering, highlighting the significance of collaboration and perseverance in achieving monumental tasks.

Frequently Asked Questions about Work With

What is the origin of work with?

+
The phrase 'work with' originated from Old English, combining 'work', meaning to toil or labor, with 'with', denoting association. It emphasizes cooperative effort.

Can work with be used in formal and informal contexts?

+
Yes, 'work with' is neutral, suitable for both formal and informal settings. It effectively communicates collaboration, making it versatile across different contexts.

What is the difference between work with and collaborate?

+
'Work with' refers broadly to any cooperative effort, while 'collaborate' often implies a more structured partnership on artistic or intellectual projects.
Browse All National Parks Phrasal Verbs
National Parks Phrasal Verbs - WeeklyCross
Alessandra Nóbrega
About the Author

Alessandra Nóbrega

History teacher who fell in love with English! This passion led me to specialize in languages and work on bilingual education projects. With 37 years in education, I believe learning should be meaningful – not just memorization.

Learn more about my journey



0%
Scroll to Top