# go to work

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/go-to-work
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To beat up, to batter.

## Examples

- The boxer went to work on his opponent in the final round.
- After the thief broke into the house, the guard dog went to work on him until the police arrived.
- The seasoned fighter waited for an opening before he went to work on his rival with a series of precise, punishing blows.

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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.