Meaning trap
work on
to spend time improving or trying to achieve something
to put effort into making something better or to try to achieve a goal over time.
Don't mix these meanings
Same phrase, different job.
to put effort into making something better or to try to achieve a goal over time.
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
I'm working on my English pronunciation every day.
To be honest, I still make mistakes when I speak, but I'm working on my confidence by practicing with friends.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: I'm working on improve my English.
Say: I'm working on improving my English.
'Work on + noun or -ing', not a bare infinitive.
Which sounds natural?
Tap the one a native speaker would say.
'Work on' is the everyday verb for putting effort into improving something; 'endeavouring to enhance' is formal.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
work on + goal
- my English
- the project
- your fitness
- it