on duty

Idioms and Phrases

At one's post, at work, as in The new nurse was on duty that evening , or The watchman was fired because he was drunk on duty . [Mid-1600s] The antonym, off duty , means “not engaged in one's work,” as in Captain Smith was much more amiable when he was off duty . [Mid-1800s]

Example Sentences

That came as no surprise to PC Furlonger, who has been punched and "spat at twice" while on duty.

From BBC

In addition around 1,600 private security guards will be on duty at the stadium, and an elite anti-terrorist police unit will protect the visiting Israeli squad.

From BBC

Cauchi fatally stabbed Pikria Darchia, 55, before being shot dead by NSW Police Insp Amy Scott, who had been on duty close by.

From BBC

Miss Steer's "misconduct in 'normalising' the drinking of alcohol on duty was a serious breach of... professional standards".

From BBC

The award will also be given to Archibald MacLellan, son of Neil MacLellan, a nursing officer who was on duty at the State Hospital that night.

From BBC