a brief task

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a brief task" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a task that is short in duration or complexity. Example: "Please complete a brief task before moving on to the main project."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The work went flawlessly, ending 16 minutes ahead of schedule even with the addition of a brief task, the manual extension of a docking target that did not properly deploy and was in the astronauts' way.

The New York Times - Science

The Digit Span Test is a brief task that assesses immediate memory/attention.

BMC Geriatrics

The smartphone also collects voice samples, elicited through a brief task of comments about pictures presented through the smartphone.

BioMed Research International

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Following the 30-min interval period in which participants completed standardized filler tasks, a brief reminder task for the trauma film was administered to both groups.

Plosone

Following the 30-min structured interval period in which participants completed standardized filler tasks, a brief reminder task for the trauma film (neutral static slides from film clips) was administered to all groups.

Plosone

This provides a method for functional parcellation of cerebral cortical regions based on a single brief, task-free resting-state scan, and has the potential to yield novel insights into functional connectivity in the human brain, such as the dissociation between connectivity profiles of dorsal and ventral anterior insula presented here.

Cerebral Cortex

Specifically, in the beginning of the sixth PD session, participants were engaged in a brief "summary task," which allowed them to debrief on what they had done/learned about until that session with the task analysis and video analysis.

International Journal of STEM Education

Children also completed several individual difference measures, including a brief intelligence task and an advanced social cognition measure (interpretive theory of mind).

Journal of Experimental Child Psychology

Participants performed a brief practice task on a PC until they demonstrate at least 90% accuracy.

Plosone

Prior to the experimental session, a brief control task was administered to ensure that the presentation times reflected a subliminal and a conscious condition.

Plosone

Upon their return participants were shown a brief reminder task in which one recognizable static image from each of the 11 film clips was presented, via slides in PowerPoint, in order to "reactivate" memory for the film.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a brief task", consider the context and choose synonyms like "a short assignment" or "a quick job" if they fit better. Be mindful of the level of formality required.

Common error

While grammatically correct, relying too heavily on "a brief task" can sound repetitive in formal contexts. Instead, use more precise language to describe the nature of the task, such as "a concise review" or "a focused analysis".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a brief task" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "brief" modifies the noun "task". It describes the characteristic of the task being short or not lengthy. Ludwig provides examples where it is used to describe different activities, ranging from space-walks to mental exercises.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

67%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a brief task" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe an activity that is short in duration or complexity. According to Ludwig, its usage is most common in scientific and news contexts, with a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal communication. While the phrase is acceptable, it's beneficial to consider context-specific synonyms for clarity and impact, especially in formal writing. Ludwig AI confirms that it is commonly used, which underlines the tips provided.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a short assignment

Replaces 'task' with 'assignment', suggesting a more formal or structured activity.

a quick job

Emphasizes speed and efficiency in completing the task.

a concise activity

Focuses on the limited scope and duration of the activity.

a small chore

Suggests a routine or domestic task that is not particularly challenging.

a light undertaking

Replaces 'task' with 'undertaking', implying a project or endeavor that does not require significant effort.

a succinct operation

Focuses on performing an action that can be done clearly and briefly.

a fleeting responsibility

Highlights the temporary nature and light burden of the task.

a momentary duty

Implies a required action that takes very little time.

a snap exercise

Highlights how easy and fast the task is.

a touch-and-go mission

Emphasizes swiftness in achieving the goals that a task requires.

FAQs

What are some synonyms for "a brief task"?

Alternatives include "a short assignment", "a quick job", or "a small chore", depending on the specific context and level of formality. Consider alternatives as "a short assignment" or "a quick job".

Is "a brief task" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "a brief task" is grammatically correct and can be used in formal writing. However, using more specific and descriptive terms may improve clarity and impact. You can also use "a concise activity" instead.

How can I make "a brief task" sound more professional?

To enhance the professional tone, consider using synonyms such as "a concise project", "a focused undertaking", or "a streamlined activity". Using more precise language improves clarity. Do not always reuse "a brief task", use "a light undertaking" instead.

Can I use "a brief task" in academic writing?

Yes, you can. However, ensure that the term accurately reflects the nature of the task. Using more specific terms, such as "a short analysis" or "a limited experiment", might be more appropriate. Consider using "a succinct operation" too.