Work
(noun) The transfer of energy that occurs when a force causes displacement of an object in the direction of the force. (verb) To exert oneself physically or mentally.
In physics, "work" has a very specific definition: force times distance moved in the direction of the force. If you push a wall and it doesn't move, no physical work is done, even if you feel tired.
Word relationships
- labor: "Labor" often implies strenuous physical effort, but doesn't have the precise scientific definition of "work."
- effort: "Effort" is the exertion of physical or mental power, which may or may not result in "work" being done in the physics sense.
- idleness: State of not working or being active.
- rest: A period of inactivity.
Commonly confused with
- Energy: Work is the process of transferring energy; energy is the capacity to do work.
Word family
- worker (noun): A person who works.
- workable (adjective): Capable of being worked.
Collocations
- mechanical work
- specific work
- do work
- work done
- work-energy theorem
Idioms & expressions
- work out
- work up
- work wonders
- all in a day's work
Example sentences
- "Lifting a heavy box against gravity requires a significant amount of work." Explaining a physics concept.
- "In physics, work is done when a force acting on an object causes the object to move a certain distance." From a scientific definition. (Khan Academy)
Memory hook
You WORK hard to get the job DONE. Work Done
When not to use
Do not use "work" in a physics context if there is no displacement or if the force is perpendicular to the displacement.
Fun facts
- The SI unit for work is the Joule (J), the same as for energy, as work is a transfer of energy.
- If you hold a heavy object still, you are exerting force but doing no work in the physics sense.
Related words
Explore more words
Energy, exertion, Thermodynamics, workload, propulsion, endeavor
Also appears in
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