In basic physics, what does the term 'work' refer to?

The term 'work' in basic physics specifically refers to the concept of force applied over a distance, which means that work is done when a force causes an object to move. Mathematically, it is defined as the product of the force applied and the distance over which the force is applied, as long as the force is in the direction of the movement. This definition highlights that work involves not just the application of force but also the movement of an object in the direction of that force. If no movement occurs, or if the movement is perpendicular to the direction of the force, then no work is done, reinforcing the relationship between force, movement, and work in physics.