English Expression · Intermediate
work one's way up
to climb something effortfully
Pronunciation: say work one's way up
Meaning
To advance to a higher position or status through effort or hard work.
Example
He worked his way up from janitor to regional manager.
He worked his way up from janitor to regional manager.
Practice tips
- Practice work one's way up out loud — read the pronunciation guide above and repeat.
- Use it in your own sentence today; reuse beats rereading.
- Pay attention to context: this English expression is for intermediate-level learners.