# at the coal face

> English word · Prep_phrase

## Definitions
1. Directly engaged in the operations of a business, rather than in a hands off, managerial position.

## Etymology
From being in a coal mine, at the face where the mining is actually occurring, especially in dark, cramped, dirty, hazardous conditions. Compare front line and trenches, of similar formation.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/at-the-coal-face