a backlog of tasks

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a backlog of tasks" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an accumulation of tasks that need to be completed, often due to delays or an overwhelming workload. Example: "Due to the recent staff shortages, we now have a significant backlog of tasks that need to be addressed before the end of the month."

✓ 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 using "a backlog of tasks", be specific about the type of tasks involved to provide clarity. For example, "a backlog of administrative tasks" or "a backlog of software development tasks".

Common error

Avoid using "a backlog of tasks" when referring to a single large project. It's more appropriate for describing multiple, discrete tasks that have accumulated.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a backlog of tasks" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a collection of duties or assignments that have accumulated and need attention. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Academia

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Social Media

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a backlog of tasks" is a grammatically correct and commonly used noun phrase that describes an accumulation of work needing attention. Ludwig AI validates this. While suitable for both formal and informal contexts, it is particularly prevalent in news, academic, and business settings. When using the phrase, clarity can be enhanced by specifying the nature of the tasks. Alternatives include "an accumulation of duties" or "a pile-up of responsibilities", each with slightly different nuances. Understanding the scope and avoiding its use for single large projects are key to correct application. Effective management of a backlog involves prioritization, task breakdown, and regular review.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a backlog of pending items

Replaces 'tasks' with 'items,' broadening the scope to include non-task related items.

an accumulation of duties

This alternative emphasizes the accumulation aspect with a slightly more formal tone by using "duties" instead of "tasks".

a pile-up of responsibilities

This alternative uses a more visual metaphor, "pile-up", suggesting a chaotic accumulation of responsibilities.

a surplus of work

Emphasizes the overabundance of work that needs to be done.

an inventory of pending work

This alternative adopts a more business-oriented tone, using "inventory" and "pending work" to describe the situation.

a queue of assignments

This alternative uses "queue" to highlight the sequential nature of the tasks waiting to be done.

outstanding tasks

This is a concise way to describe tasks that remain to be completed.

unfinished business

This idiom implies tasks that are incomplete and possibly require urgent attention.

overdue projects

Highlights the time-sensitive nature of the tasks, indicating they are past their deadlines.

deferred actions

Focuses on the act of postponing tasks, implying they have been delayed.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "a backlog of tasks" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives such as "an accumulation of duties" or "an inventory of pending work" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "a backlog of tasks" and "a project"?

"A backlog of tasks" refers to multiple, often smaller, individual items that need to be completed. A "project", on the other hand, is typically a single, larger undertaking with a defined goal and scope.

Is it appropriate to use "a backlog of tasks" in casual conversation?

Yes, "a backlog of tasks" is suitable for both formal and informal settings. However, in casual conversation, you might opt for simpler phrases like "a pile-up of responsibilities".

What are some strategies for managing "a backlog of tasks" effectively?

Prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance, break down large tasks into smaller, manageable steps, and delegate when possible. Regularly review and update the backlog to ensure it remains relevant and accurate.