My Work Here is Done: Definition, Meaning and Origin

Last Updated on
June 6, 2023

The phrase "my work here is done" typically signifies the completion of a task, duty, or mission. It is often associated with a sense of accomplishment, relief, or departure.

In short:

"My work here is done" means that the speaker has accomplished their task or fulfilled their purpose in the given context or place.

What Does "My Work Here Is Done" Mean?

The phrase emphasizes the completion of a task or duty that the speaker was responsible for. It often implies that the speaker is now free to leave or move on to other tasks.

Let's explore its core meanings and usage:

  • It signifies the fulfillment of a responsibility or goal.
  • It is often used in the context of tasks, projects, or missions.
  • It conveys a sense of satisfaction and success regarding the completion of a job or assignment.
  • It could be used humorously to suggest finishing an unimportant or mundane task in an exaggerated, self-congratulatory way.

Where Does "My Work Here Is Done" Come From?

This phrase is often associated with heroes in literature and media, who, after accomplishing their mission or saving the day, would say, "My work here is done" before departing. The phrase has been adopted into general usage to signify the completion of any task or duty.

Historical Example

"And even with that he bade me farewell. 'My work here is done now,' said he."

- The Cloister and the Hearth, Charles Reade, 1861

10 Examples of "My Work Here Is Done" in Sentences

Here are some examples of using the idiom in sentences:

  • After finishing the project, the manager said, "My work here is done," and left for his vacation.
  • The pretty snow bunny, after winning the competition, batted her eyelashes and declared, "My work here is done."
  • After successfully training the new recruits, the trainer emailed them, "With kind regards, my work here is done."
  • After resolving the technical issue, the IT consultant stated, "My work here is done."
  • The director happily announced, "It's a wrap! My work here is done."
  • Having taught his son how to ride a bike, the father smiled and said, "My work here is done."
  • After a witty comeback, Larry, the usual butt of the joke in the team, said, "My work here is done."
  • Upon successfully implementing the new software system, the project leader announced, "My work here is done."
  • Having guided the team to a championship win, the coach said, "My work here is done."
  • After fixing the broken car engine, the mechanic wiped his hands clean and said, "My work here is done."

Examples of "My Work Here Is Done" in Pop Culture

The phrase "my work here is done" often appears in movies, television series, books, and even video games, usually spoken by characters who have just accomplished a major task or mission.

Let's look at some examples:

  • The meme "My job here is done" is a variation of the phrase and has gained popularity in social media. It is derived from a still image or gif from the "Sailor Moon" anime series. In this scene, the character Tuxedo Mask makes a dramatic exit, stating, "My job here is done," despite not contributing significantly to solving the problem at hand. Sailor Moon responds with, "But you didn’t do anything," but Tuxedo Mask is already retreating.

Other/Different Ways to Say "My Work Here Is Done"

There are several alternative expressions that convey a similar meaning to "my work here is done."

Some of these include:

  • Task accomplished
  • Duty fulfilled
  • Mission complete
  • Job finished
  • Responsibility discharged

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "My Work Here Is Done":

  • What does "my work here is done" mean?

"My work here is done" is a statement indicating that the speaker has completed a task or duty in the given context or place.

  • How can I use "my work here is done" in a sentence?

You can use "my work here is done" to convey that you've accomplished a task or responsibility. For example, "Having finished the last report, I said to my colleagues, 'my work here is done,' and headed home."

  • Where does the idiom "my work here is done" come from?

The phrase is often associated with heroic characters in literature and media who, upon completing their mission or saving the day, would declare "my work here is done."

  • Does the phrase imply finality?

Yes, it generally signifies the completion of a task, often implying that the speaker will now depart or move on to other things.

  • Can people use the phrase humorously?

Yes, it can be used humorously to dramatize minor accomplishments or tasks.

  • Can the phrase imply satisfaction or achievement?

Yes, it often carries a sense of accomplishment, satisfaction, or relief at having completed a task or duty.

  • Is the phrase used in both professional and personal contexts?

Yes, it can be used in various contexts, from professional tasks to personal accomplishments.

  • Is the phrase used in literature and media?

Yes, it's often used in books, movies, and TV shows, usually by characters who have accomplished a significant task or mission.

  • Does the phrase always imply physical work?

No, it can refer to any kind of task, duty, or responsibility, whether physical, intellectual, or emotional.

  • Can the phrase have a heroic connotation?

Yes, often due to its usage in media by heroic characters upon completing their mission.

Final Thoughts About "My Work Here Is Done"

The idiom "my work here is done" implies a sense of accomplishment and completion. It signifies that a person has fulfilled a task or responsibility in a given context or location.

Here's a quick recap:

  • It refers to the completion of a task or duty in a particular context.
  • The phrase has roots in media, often associated with heroic characters who have accomplished a mission.
  • It is applicable in various situations and contexts.

When someone says, "My work here is done," you know a task has been completed and a duty fulfilled. The phrase is a testament to dedication, commitment, and accomplishment in the face of challenges.

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