Idiom of the Week - Work

On May 1st , many countries around the world celebrate Labor Day or International Workers’ Day , so why not learn some idioms with “work”?

to work down to the wire:  to work until the last minute
E.g.      The investors will need to turn in their report by 9 am, and they still have a lot to do. They will have to be working down to the wire.            
             He had to work down to the wire to finish this large-scale illumination project on time.

to work for (someone): to meet the requirements of someone; to fit someone
E.g.      I don’t think living in an apartment will work for us. We have two dogs, so we prefer to have a house with a yard.           
             She tried on a bright pink dress but her friend though that color did not work for her.

work one’s tail off: to work very hard
E.g.      The engineers worked their tails off to get the new product released before the end of the year.
             Many think that stay-at-home moms watch TV all day but they work their tails off to do the chores and take care of their family.    

in the works: (something) being prepared, under development
E.g.      The employees think that big salary increases are in the works.
             The new laws that are in the works that will affect all the residents of the state.

work out: to exercise; to finish positively
E.g.      Jim started a new, healthier lifestyle. He goes to the gym and works out at least three times a week.
             I know there is a disagreement between us but I think we can work this out so that all of us are satisfied.
 
the “works”: (with) all the available options
E.g.      George always orders the hamburger with the works, he loves all the toppings in his sandwich.
             This new phone has the works – high-resolution camera, quality sounds system and beautiful display – basically everything I need.

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