teamwork
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /tˈiːmwɜːk/
US
- /ˈtimˌwɜrk/
Description
- working together
- collaboration
- cooperation
- collective effort
Teamwork isn't just about being on the same team; it's about everyone contributing their unique skills to achieve a common goal. Think of an orchestra—each musician plays a different instrument, but when they work in harmony, they create a masterpiece. It is more than just dividing tasks; it's about supporting one another, communicating effectively, and trusting that every member is pulling their weight. From a sports team chasing a championship to friends building a treehouse, the result depends on this shared spirit. Without it, even the simplest projects can fall apart or take much longer to complete.
Teamwork describes the collaborative effort of a group to achieve a common objective. It is more than simply working alongside others; it involves combining individual strengths and talents in a coordinated, purposeful way. Imagine building a stone wall: one person might be skilled at selecting the right stones, another at fitting them together perfectly, and a third at ensuring the structure remains stable. Each role is vital, and the final success depends entirely on their ability to function as a single unit.
The context of "teamwork" implies shared responsibility and mutual respect. It is the backbone of the modern workplace, where complex projects—from global marketing campaigns to groundbreaking scientific research—require diverse expertise. However, teamwork isn't limited to professional settings. It thrives in families tackling household chores, communities organizing local events, or even friends planning a cross-country road trip.
Effective teamwork requires strong communication, clear roles, trust, and the ability to resolve conflicts constructively. A team that embraces diverse perspectives and values each member's contribution is far more likely to succeed than one where individuals work in isolation. Nature even provides its own models: think of honeybees, whose incredible hive-building abilities are a perfect example of natural coordination. Ultimately, whether it's conquering a challenging project or enjoying a shared experience, teamwork is the power of many working as one.
Examples
- 1
Work projects
Good teamwork can make a difficult project much easier.
- 2
Sports
The win came from strong teamwork, not just one star player.
- 3
Surgery
This kind of surgery requires teamwork between doctors, nurses, and technicians.
- 4
Product launch
We need better teamwork with the marketing team if we want the launch to go smoothly.
- 5
Remote work
Remote teams need clear communication to keep teamwork strong.
- 6
Classroom
The teacher used group projects to help students develop teamwork.
- 7
Company values
At this company, teamwork matters more than trying to do everything alone.
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- teamworknoun