PhrasesHub

Work around the clock

    Definitions

      • Work continuously for a long period of time
        To emphasize the long hours and dedication put into a task or project

      • Find a solution or workaround for a problem
        To indicate finding a creative or alternative way to achieve a goal or overcome an obstacle

    Examples of Work around the clock

    • The CEO of the company has been working around the clock to meet the tight deadline for the project.

      This idiom is used to describe someone who is working continuously for an extended period of time, often without breaks or rest. It implies that the person is working tirelessly and persistently to achieve a goal or complete a task. In this example, the CEO is working non-stop to ensure that the project is completed on time.

    • The doctors and nurses at the hospital have been working around the clock to provide the best possible care to the patients during the pandemic.

      This example shows that the idiom can be used to describe a group of people as well. In this case, the medical staff is working continuously to provide uninterrupted care to the patients during the crisis.

    • The startup founder has been working around the clock to build her company from scratch.

      This example illustrates that the idiom can be used to describe someone who is working diligently to establish a new venture or business. It highlights the hard work and dedication required to turn an idea into a successful enterprise.

    • The athletes have been training around the clock to prepare for the Olympics.

      This example demonstrates that the idiom can be used to describe people who are working intensively to improve their skills or achieve a specific goal. In this case, the athletes are working tirelessly to get in shape and perform at their best during the Olympics.

    • The students have been studying around the clock to prepare for their exams.

      This example shows that the idiom can be used to describe people who are working diligently to learn or acquire new knowledge. It highlights the hard work and focus required to succeed in academic pursuits.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "work around the clock" is often used to describe working tirelessly and without breaks for an extended period of time. It can also refer to finding a solution or alternative route to reach a goal or solve a problem. In both cases, the intention is to convey a strong sense of dedication and determination.

    Origin of "Work around the clock"

    The origin of the idiom "work around the clock" can be traced back to the Industrial Revolution in the 19th century. During this time, factories operated 24 hours a day, and workers were expected to work long shifts without rest. This phrase was also commonly used in the military, where soldiers were required to be on duty and ready to work at any given time.

    In modern times, the idiom has evolved to encompass not just physical labor, but also mental and creative work. It is often used in a business setting to describe the long hours and hard work put into a project or to emphasize the dedication of employees.

    Examples of this idiom can be found in literature, such as in the novel "A Tale of Two Cities" by Charles Dickens, where the character Lucie Manette is described as being able to "work around the clock" to support her family. It has also been used in popular culture, such as in the song "Workin' 9 to 5" by Dolly Parton, which portrays the struggle of working long hours to make a living.

    Overall, the idiom "work around the clock" has a strong connotation of hard work and determination, and its origins in the Industrial Revolution continue to influence its usage today.