Make short work of something/somebody

usgb
phrase

To finish or deal with something quickly and easily.

She made short work of the assignment and finished it an hour early.
Visual representation of "make short work of something/somebody" - To finish or deal with something quickly and easily

Often appears as...

  • make short work of a task
  • make short work of an assignment

Usage tips

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "make short work of something/somebody"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Colloquial Use

Used in casual conversation rather than formal speech or writing.

Illustration for Colloquial Use
He made short work of cleaning his room so we could go out sooner.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Speed Implication

Implies completing a task faster than expected.

Illustration for Speed Implication
The team made short work of the project and impressed the client.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Ease Suggested

Suggests the task was not only quick but also easy to accomplish.

Illustration for Ease Suggested
She made short work of the math problems, finding them simple.
Visual representation of the word "Make short work of something/somebody"

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