in the works

Idioms  

1. In preparation, under development. For example, The agent said there was a movie deal in the works, or He assured her that a follow-up campaign was in the works. [Second half of 1900s] Also see in the pipeline.

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Example Sentences

The A.I. economy is even bigger than that, with far more investor and fund exposure in the works, and a worse-case crash could hit up to $20 trillion in household wealth, per the Vanderbilt report.

From Slate • May 15, 2026

While that contract renewal had been in the works for a few months, the timing of the announcement felt pertinent.

From BBC • May 12, 2026

Also in the works: Wi Spa is planning to build a wellness center on its third floor, in what’s now a skincare area.

From Los Angeles Times • May 5, 2026

A voice assistant is also in the works, letting people navigate the app through natural conversation.

From Barron's • Apr. 29, 2026

Most thought it was Ares 6 in the works.

From "The Martian" by Andy Weir

Related Words

• activity
• deal
• force
• life
• movement
• operation
• plan
• process
• reaction
• response