"to do" vs to be done

Both "to do" and "to be done" are correct, but they are used in different contexts. "To do" is used when referring to actions that someone needs to perform, while "to be done" is used when referring to actions that need to be completed by someone or something.

Last updated: April 07, 2024 • 260 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when referring to actions that someone needs to perform.

""to do""

Use "to do" when talking about tasks, actions, or activities that need to be carried out by someone. It is often used in to-do lists or when discussing plans.

Examples:

I have a lot of work to do today.
What do you need me to do?
Her to-do list is getting longer every day.
I need to do my homework before dinner.
He always finds something to do on weekends.

Show examples from the web [+]

List all of the tasks, activities or pieces of work you currently have "to do"2.
The first mandate is precisely "to be" not "to do".
My old "to do" list.
AND... AS FOR PAIN, PAIN IS... DEFINITELY NOT ON MY "TO DO" LIST.
Work the rest of your "to do" list around your top three.
People say to me all of the time, that someone else just can't do for them, the things that are on the "to do" list.
Create a personal schedule Recording everything that must be done on a calendar or "to do" list will help him to keep track of important dates and deadlines.
One of the tried and true organization and time-management tools is the trusty old "to do" list.
Because she considered only what she was doing to be essential; she was too absorbed and worried by the things "to do".
Make that phone call, or put it on your "to do" list, and your mind will let go of the concern for now.
We must resist this temptation by trying "to be" before trying "to do".
But, in reality, it's a great time for us to step back and reconsider the direction of our businesses.Here is our top 10 list of "to do" items to get your business ready for next year:1.
Catch all the fish on your "to do" list before time runs out in this exciting arcade game!
Most are working long hours and that "To do" list keeps growing not shrinking.
Every day of the week and a "To do" box, you can select the language of your choice, see selection column.
Your only desire? "To do" the other side!
"To do" a sesshin presupposes a strong determination, whether it is a simple half-day sitting or lasts several days.
The days of the week indicated on it and a "To do" box.
Check off on your "To Do" list as to which tasks out rank others as far as importance is concerned.
If you have a "To Do" list that contains several tasks, it is wise to separate the items that must be done now from the ones that hold lesser importance.

Alternatives:

to perform
to accomplish
to complete
to execute
to carry out

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when referring to actions that need to be completed by someone or something.

"to be done"

Use "to be done" when talking about tasks, actions, or activities that need to be completed. It is often used to indicate pending or unfinished work.

Examples:

The dishes need to be done before we can eat.
There is still a lot of work to be done on the project.
The repairs have to be done by next week.
The laundry is waiting to be done.
The report is almost done, just a few more sections to be done.

Show examples from the web [+]

(See “Marketing Malpractice,” HBR, December 2005.) The theory of jobs to be done was developed in part as a complement to the theory of disruptive innovation— ...

Alternatives:

to be completed
to be finished
to be accomplished
to be executed
to be carried out

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