A backlog of tasks

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "A backlog of tasks" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a collection of tasks that have not been completed and are pending. Example: "Due to the recent staff shortage, we now have a significant backlog of tasks that need to be addressed."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Each year, our capital project needs are substantial, and we have deferred certain maintenance tasks in older buildings, creating a backlog of tasks that now requires attention.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

In many parts of China, there is now a backlog of labor disputes awaiting resolution.

The New York Times

"You just end up getting a massive backlog of tasks and you lose sight of what's really important".

TechCrunch

It also has a backlog of problem reports and preventive maintenance tasks, he said.

The New York Times

If you feel crushed under a backlog of responsibilities, start with a few small or fast tasks.

WikiHow

Organised crime, corruption and a judiciary buried under a backlog of hundreds of thousands of cases are only the most urgent tasks.The campaign was boring, the candidates dull and people are fed up, says Ivo Banac, a historian and commentator.

The Economist

The federal government has pledged to send a task-force of lawyers to plough through a backlog of cases in Maranhão.

The Economist

This could have some promise, but with a backlog of several thousand shots, getting a library up to date in Places is a task I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy.

TechCrunch

Or with a backlog of e-mails.

The New Yorker

It has a backlog of three thousand ideas.

The New Yorker

County Supreme Court to tackle a backlog of medical-malpractice cases.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing a "backlog of tasks", specify the type of tasks and, if possible, quantify the backlog to provide a clearer picture of the situation.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the impact of a "backlog of tasks" without providing context. Clearly communicate whether the backlog is manageable or poses a significant problem to prevent unnecessary alarm.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a backlog of tasks" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a correctly used expression. For example, "Addressing a backlog of tasks is crucial for improving efficiency."

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a backlog of tasks" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe an accumulation of unfinished work. As indicated by Ludwig AI, its usage is appropriate and well-understood. Predominantly found in news, academic, and scientific contexts, this phrase serves to highlight challenges or explain delays. When using this phrase, be specific about the tasks involved and their impact. Alternatives such as "accumulated workload" or "outstanding assignments" can be used for variety. Avoid exaggeration and ensure context to prevent misinterpretation. The phrase is a useful tool for clear communication in various settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Accumulated workload

Focuses on the volume of work that has built up over time.

Outstanding assignments

Emphasizes tasks that are yet to be completed.

Pending duties

Highlights responsibilities that are waiting to be addressed.

Unfinished projects

Specifically refers to projects that are still in progress.

Pileup of responsibilities

Implies a growing accumulation of duties.

Overdue activities

Indicates tasks that are past their deadline.

Outstanding obligations

Stresses the mandatory nature of the tasks.

Inventory of unfinished work

Highlights the scale of the work needing completion.

Accumulation of pending items

Refers to a set of items that require attention.

Reservoir of pending tasks

Evokes a large quantity of tasks.

FAQs

How can I use "a backlog of tasks" in a sentence?

You can use "a backlog of tasks" to describe an accumulation of unfinished tasks, as in "Due to staff shortages, we have "a backlog of tasks" that need to be addressed".

What are some alternatives to saying "a backlog of tasks"?

Some alternatives include "accumulated workload", "outstanding assignments", or "pending duties", depending on the specific context.

Is it more appropriate to say "backlog of task" or "backlog of tasks"?

"Backlog of tasks" is the correct and more common usage, as "backlog" refers to a collection of multiple items. "Backlog of task" would only be appropriate if referring to a single, specific task.

What is the difference between "a backlog of tasks" and "a queue of tasks"?

"A backlog of tasks" generally implies a larger, less structured accumulation of tasks, while "a queue of tasks" suggests a more organized and sequential list, implying tasks are processed in a specific order.