make short work of something

make short work of (someone or something)

To deal with, finish, or dispose of someone or something very quickly or handily. We'll make short work of this project now that you've joined the team. You made short work of that book you were reading. You must have liked it! Everyone is expecting the team to make short work of their opponents in the upcoming match.

See also: make, of, short, work

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

make short work of something

1. If you make short work of something, you deal with it or complete it quickly and easily. His car made short work of the steep hills. A spray paint will make short work of painting awkward objects.

2. If you make short work of someone or something, you defeat them, destroy them or get rid of them quickly and easily. Britain's No 2, Greg Rusedski made short work of his opponent in the Toulouse Open quarter-final. My friend made short work of the salad of rocket and parmesan.

See also: make, of, short, something, work

Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed. © HarperCollins Publishers 2012

make short ˈwork of something/somebody

do or finish something very quickly; defeat somebody very easily: The children certainly made short work of the chocolate biscuits! ♢ The champion made very short work of the challenger in the title fight.

See also: make, of, short, somebody, something, work

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017