Taskmaster: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is often used to describe someone who is very strict and demanding when it comes to work. It can have a negative connotation, implying that the person is excessively harsh or demanding.

• The new project leader is a real taskmaster; he won't accept anything less than perfection.
• Under the taskmaster's watchful eye, no one dared to slack off.

This term is typically used in a workplace setting to describe someone who oversees workers and ensures that tasks are completed correctly. It is a neutral term and is commonly used in job titles and descriptions.

• She got promoted to supervisor after only two years with the company.
• The supervisor on duty will help you with any questions about the process.

This is a broad term used to describe someone who is responsible for controlling or administering an organization or group of staff. It is a neutral term and can be used in many formal and informal settings.

• The manager of the department is responsible for overseeing all the projects.
• If you have any issues, you should discuss them with your manager.

This term is often used in historical or formal contexts to describe someone who supervises and directs workers. It can have a negative connotation, especially if used to describe someone in a position of power in a harsh or authoritarian manner.

• The overseer made sure that all tasks were completed on time, often resorting to strict measures.
• In the old factory, the overseer would watch over the workers from the upper balcony.

Used to describe someone who assigns and expects the completion of tasks, usually in a strict and demanding way. It does not inherently carry a negative connotation but implies a certain level of authority and high expectations.

• The new manager was known as a taskmaster, ensuring every project was completed on time

Typically used in historical or formal contexts to describe a person who supervises others, especially in a work environment. It can sometimes carry a historical connotation related to oppressive labor systems.

• In the 19th century, the overseer was responsible for managing the laborers on the plantation

Has a very negative connotation and is used to describe someone who forces others to work extremely hard, often to the point of being cruel. It should be used very cautiously due to its association with historical slavery and oppressive practices.

• The coach was known as a slave driver, making the team practice for hours without rest

Also has a very negative connotation, often referring to someone who uses physical punishment or harsh discipline. This term is rare and generally used in historical or metaphorical contexts.

• The story depicted the cruel whipper who punished the prisoners without mercy

When referring to someone who is very strict and makes others work very hard, often in a supervisory or leadership role. This term can have a negative connotation.

• The new manager is quite a taskmaster, always pushing us to meet tight deadlines.
• Under the taskmaster's watchful eye, the team had no choice but to stay on task.

Refers to someone who strives for flawlessness and sets very high standards, sometimes to the point of being overly critical. This word can have a neutral or negative connotation depending on the context.

• She's a perfectionist who spends hours making sure every detail is just right.
• Being a perfectionist, he often redoes his work several times until he's satisfied.

Used for someone who insists on something being done in a certain way and adheres strictly to rules or standards, often to an annoying degree. This term generally has a negative connotation.

• He's a stickler for punctuality, always insisting everyone arrive exactly on time.
• The editor is a stickler for grammar, so don't expect any leniency on mistakes.

Can be used in general situations where someone or something requires a lot of effort, attention, or resources. It’s applicable in various contexts like work, education, or relationships.

• Her job has become increasingly demanding, often requiring late nights and weekends.
• The professor is very demanding, expecting students to put in many hours of study.