Task Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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task
[tɑːsk ]
Definitions
work
A piece of work to be done or undertaken.
Synonyms
assignment, job, project.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| task |
Typically refers to a piece of work or duty that is assigned or expected to be completed. It can be used in both personal and professional settings.
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| job |
This word often signifies ongoing work for which one gets paid. It can also refer to a specific duty or responsibility, usually implying a more permanent or professional activity.
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| assignment |
Usually refers to work or duties given by someone in authority, like a teacher or manager. Commonly used in academic or professional environments.
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| project |
Generally refers to a larger, more complex, and often collaborative piece of work. It can be used in professional, academic, or personal contexts.
|
Examples of usage
- I have a lot of tasks to complete before the deadline.
- She wrote down the tasks that needed to be finished by the end of the day.
computing
A discrete and self-contained activity that a computer is to perform.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| task |
Use 'task' to describe a piece of work or duty that needs to be completed, often as part of a larger project or job.
|
| operation |
Use 'operation' to describe a series of actions or activities that are carried out to achieve a particular end, often in a technical, military, or business context.
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| function |
Use 'function' to refer to the specific role or purpose of something, especially within a system or device.
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| process |
Use 'process' to describe a series of steps or actions taken to achieve a particular result, often in a systematic or methodical manner.
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Examples of usage
- The program can handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
- Each task is assigned a priority level for execution.
command
Assign a piece of work to someone.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| task |
Use 'task' when referring to a specific piece of work that needs to be completed. It can be used in any context, such as work, school or home.
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| assign |
Use 'assign' when giving someone a specific responsibility or task to complete. This can be used in both formal and informal settings.
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| delegate |
Use 'delegate' when giving someone else the responsibility to complete a task or make a decision. This often implies authority and trust in the person given the task.
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| allocate |
Use 'allocate' when distributing resources or responsibilities among people or tasks. This word is often used in formal or business contexts.
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Examples of usage
- I will task you with completing the report by tomorrow.
- The manager tasked the team with finding a solution to the problem.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Breaking down tasks into smaller parts can help reduce feelings of overwhelm and increase productivity.
- Research shows that completing tasks provides a sense of accomplishment, boosting motivation.
- People often experience what's called 'task aversion' when faced with unpleasant jobs, which can lead to procrastination.
Work Culture
- In modern workplaces, 'task management' has become essential, with tools like Asana and Trello helping teams stay organized.
- Different cultures approach task management in unique ways; for example, some prioritize collaboration while others emphasize individual responsibility.
- The rise of remote work has brought about new challenges in managing tasks effectively and maintaining clear communication.
Education
- In educational settings, assigning tasks can facilitate active learning by engaging students with hands-on activities.
- The 'task-based language teaching' approach focuses on using real-life tasks to improve language skills among learners.
- Teachers often use collaborative tasks to promote teamwork and social skills among students.
Technology
- In computer science, a task refers to a set of operations that a processor can execute, integral to multitasking.
- Task scheduling in software programming allows multiple operations to occur simultaneously, increasing efficiency.
- With the rise of artificial intelligence, machines are now assigned tasks traditionally done by humans, reshaping the workforce.
Origin of 'task'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old French 'tasque,' which means a job or assignment.
- Its Latin root 'taxare' means to charge or to assess, indicating a duty or responsibility.
- The term evolved over time, first appearing in English around the 14th century.
The word 'task' originated from the Old French word 'tasque' meaning 'imposed work or duty'. It was used in Middle English to refer to a piece of work to be done. Over time, the word evolved to encompass various meanings related to work, duty, and assignment. Today, 'task' is commonly used in both professional and everyday contexts to denote a specific job or activity.
Word Frequency Rank
Positioned at #1,191, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.
- ...
- 1188 ordered
- 1189 remember
- 1190 negative
- 1191 task
- 1192 maintenance
- 1193 engaged
- 1194 authorized
- ...