WORK AROUND

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📖 Definition

To work around means to find alternative ways to bypass or solve problems, especially when direct methods are blocked or ineffective.

Examples in context

📖 Definition

To work around means to find alternative ways to bypass or solve problems, especially when direct methods are blocked or ineffective.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable
No
The verb and particle must remain together.
Register
Neutral
It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
Transitive
Yes
It requires an object to complete its meaning.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense Form Example
Present Simple work around I often work around traffic by taking side streets.
Past Simple worked around She worked around the problem successfully yesterday.
Present Continuous working around They are working around the budget constraints creatively.
Present Perfect have worked around We have worked around various obstacles this year.

💡 When to Use

Facing bureaucratic challenges
When dealing with cumbersome procedures, one can work around them by finding alternative solutions or approaches.
Example: "The manager worked around company policies to expedite the process."
Overcoming technical issues
In the tech field, work around issues by developing creative solutions that bypass existing limitations.
Example: "The developer worked around software bugs to meet the deadline."
Navigating personal obstacles
Individuals tackle personal hurdles by working around challenges rather than confronting them head-on.
Example: "She worked around her schedule to accommodate the meeting."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Using intransitively
❌ Wrong: He works around quickly.
✅ Correct: He worked around the issue quickly.
💡 Tip: Remember it needs an object to make sense.
Separation error
❌ Wrong: She worked the issue around.
✅ Correct: She worked around the issue.
💡 Tip: Keep the verb and particle together.
Incorrect tense
❌ Wrong: They have work around the rule.
✅ Correct: They have worked around the rule.
💡 Tip: Ensure correct tense usage.

"The wise learn to work around life's hurdles, understanding that flexibility often leads to hidden paths of success and fulfillment."

In Context

During World War II, British engineer Barnes Wallis worked tirelessly to develop the bouncing bomb for Operation Chastise. Faced with numerous obstacles, Wallis had to work around bureaucratic red tape and skepticism from military officials. He discovered a way to work around the limitations of existing aircraft technology by designing a bomb that could bounce over water. Wallis' dedication paid off during the Dambusters Raid in 1943. His innovative weapon allowed the British Royal Air Force to work around heavily fortified German dams, achieving a surprise victory that significantly disrupted German war efforts. The bold plan was initially met with doubt, but Wallis' ability to work around technological and logistical challenges demonstrated the power of perseverance and creative problem-solving.

Practice

WORK AROUND - 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

circumvent bypass

Antonyms

confront

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"She had to ___ her busy schedule to attend the conference."

work above
work around
work under
work through

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Work Around

What is the origin of work around?

+
The phrase 'work around' likely originated in the mid-20th century, reflecting the growing need for adaptable problem-solving language amid technological and social changes.

Can work around be used in formal and informal contexts?

+
Yes, 'work around' is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, as it denotes a pragmatic approach to solving problems in diverse situations.

What is the difference between work around and circumvent?

+
'Work around' suggests finding alternative solutions, while 'circumvent' implies deliberately avoiding obstacles, often with an element of cleverness or trickery.

Related Phrasal Verbs

Explore more phrasal verbs in our dictionary:

phrasal-verb-get-aroundphrasal-verb-bypassphrasal-verb-find-a-wayphrasal-verb-deal-withphrasal-verb-make-dophrasal-verb-figure-out
Browse National Parks Phrasal Verbs
Hub 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



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