PhrasesHub

Work like a charm

    Definitions

      • To work effectively and without any issues or difficulties
        To describe the smooth and successful completion of a task or activity, often with little effort or obstacles

      • To bring about a desired result or outcome
        To describe a method or solution that is reliable and effective in achieving a specific goal or purpose

      • To work quickly and efficiently
        To emphasize the speed and efficiency of a person or thing in completing a task or achieving a goal

    Examples of Work like a charm

    • The new software we installed for our accounting system has been working like a charm.

      This idiom is used to describe something that is working perfectly or very effectively. The phrase "work like a charm" means that the software is functioning flawlessly and has made our accounting processes much easier and efficient.

    • The makeup artist used a special foundation on my face that worked like a charm. My skin looked flawless and radiant in my wedding photos.

      This idiom is used to describe something that produces the desired result or effect. In this case, the foundation used by the makeup artist worked so well that my skin looked perfect in my wedding photos.

    • The sales pitch that the salesperson gave me was like a charm. I was convinced to make the purchase right away.

      This idiom is used to describe something that is very persuasive or convincing. The salesperson's pitch was so persuasive that I was convinced to make the purchase right away.

    • The new fitness program that I started has been working like a charm. I've lost 10 pounds in just two weeks.

      This idiom is used to describe something that is producing a positive result or outcome. In this case, the new fitness program has helped me lose weight quickly and effectively.

    • The musician's performance was like a charm. The audience was completely captivated by his talent.

      This idiom is used to describe something that is very captivating or engaging. The musician's performance was so captivating that the audience was completely entranced by his talent.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "work like a charm" is commonly used to describe the successful and smooth completion of a task or the achievement of a goal. It can also be used to describe the reliability and effectiveness of a method or solution. Additionally, it can emphasize the speed and efficiency of a person or thing in completing a task. Overall, this idiom highlights the positive and effortless nature of the process or outcome.

    Origin of "Work like a charm"

    The origin of this idiom is not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in the early 19th century. The word "charm" in this context refers to a spell or incantation used to bring about a desired result. The phrase may have been influenced by the use of charms in traditional folk medicine, where certain objects or words were believed to have magical healing properties.

    The term "like a charm" was first recorded in a poem by John Clare in 1826, where he writes "The fairies of the orchard who charm like a charm." This usage suggests that the phrase was already in common use at the time.

    Over the years, the idiom has evolved to its current form, "work like a charm," which is now commonly used in everyday language to describe something that works smoothly and effectively. It has become a popular expression in both British and American English, and can be heard in a variety of contexts, from describing the success of a project to the effectiveness of a new product.