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Glite Dictionary
work flow

work flow

3.5
The order and speed that tasks are done at work
  • noun
  • /wɜrk floʊ/
  • Specialized
translation icon : flujo de trabajo
  • To increase efficiency, we need to analyze how the work flow can be streamlined.

Examples

  • The manager implemented a new system to improve the work flow in the production line.

  • Then look closely at the piece you control, grease the individual parts, and make the work flow as smoothly as possible.

    Blog text (11)

  • So workflows are effective, but creating good work flows right now is really left to a small group of of technology experts.

  • By optimizing the work flow, our team completed the project ahead of schedule.

Synonyms

workflow
vswork flow
  • Specialized
24 4.1

The planned order of tasks people follow to finish a job

has identical meaning but is written as two separate words

Antonyms

chaos
  • Specialized
14 6.8

A system that is hard to predict because small changes cause big effects

disorganization
  • US
7 3.8

A lack of order or system that makes things untidy

Surface Forms

work flow singular
work flows plural
workflows plural
workflow singular

Morphology

work + flow

The noun phrase literally combines 'work' (tasks or job activity) with 'flow' (a steady movement or sequence), so the meaning 'sequence or rate of progress of tasks' is directly inferable from the constituents. This compositional pattern (the flow of work) is common across languages and in English (often written as 'workflow'), so a B1 learner who knows both words will readily understand it.

Etymology

Work flow comes from the image of water moving through pipes, where work is the tasks and flow is the smooth movement. So, when tasks move easily from person to person without stops, that's 'the order and speed of work'.