# do the work

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/do-the-work
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To take part in social justice activism; to fight against racism, oppression, etc.

## Examples

- You must do the work to understand these social issues.
- Reading books is a good start, but you must do the work if you want to help change the system.
- True progress requires more than just performative gestures; it demands that individuals consistently do the work to dismantle deep-seated prejudices within their own communities.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.