Looking up...
work flat out
/wɜːrk flæt aʊt/◆phrasal verb
work very hard
She worked flat out to finish the project before the deadline.
She worked extremely hard to complete the project on time.
informal
to work as hard and as fast as possible
The team worked flat out all week to meet the client's demands.
The team worked extremely hard throughout the week to satisfy the client.
He's been working flat out to get the report ready for tomorrow's meeting.
He's been working very hard to prepare the report in time.
Often used to emphasize intense effort over a short period.
Collocations
work flat outwork extremely hardwork flat out to do somethingwork very hard to achieve something
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
When to use 'work flat out'
Use this phrase when describing a situation where someone is working as hard and as fast as possible, often under pressure or with a tight deadline. It implies both intensity and urgency.
Gold Rule
Avoid literal interpretation
Do not confuse 'flat out' with its literal meaning (e.g., 'lying flat'). In this phrase, 'flat out' means 'with maximum effort' or 'at full capacity.'
Word Origin
The phrase combines 'work' (from Old English 'weorc') with 'flat out' (originating in the early 20th century as a term in aviation, meaning 'with all engines at maximum power'). The idiomatic use of 'flat out' to mean 'with maximum effort' transferred to 'work flat out' by the mid-20th century.
Usage Notes
This phrase is informal and typically used in spoken English or casual writing. It emphasizes not just hard work but also speed and intensity.
Word Breakdown
work
to perform labor or exert effort
verbflat out
with maximum effort or speed
adverbial phraseEnglish Dictionary