start+finish or getstarted+getdone

[jaysee]

don't start the work if you cannot finish it.

don't get the work started if you cannot get it done.


is any of these sentences good and natural English?
thanks.

[Mister Micawber]

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Their grammar is fine, but the meaning of the second is a little off the intended, I think.

Don't start the work if you cannot finish it.

Don't get started on the work if you cannot get it done.
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_________________
Canadian-American native speaker
who teaches English for a living at Mister Micawber's
ESL cafe: Interview with Mister Micawber

[jaysee]

How about "Don't start the work if you cannot get it done.", please?

My doubt is concerning the usage of "get started" and "get it done".

Thanks

[Mister Micawber]

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That's fine, too.
.
_________________
Canadian-American native speaker
who teaches English for a living at Mister Micawber's
ESL cafe: Interview with Mister Micawber