When work is done by the object on the other object, the transfer of energy from first object to second object takes place.
If one body collides with the other body at rest, the transfer of energy from first body to second body takes place.
This transfer of energy is corresponding to the work done by the first body on the second body.
Another example is the mechanical energy from windmill is directly proportional to the work done by the wind on the windmill.
Thus, work is the correct answer.