a great task

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a great task" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a task or challenge that is difficult, important, or significant in some way. Example: "The construction of the Taj Mahal was a great task that took over 20 years to complete."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Tonight's victory is also the beginning of a great task.

The New York Times

Today, our movement is faced with a great task.

The Guardian - Opinion

She said recently: "A great task lies before us in Durban.

The Guardian

"Roberto undertook a great task but he did not do it alone," Silvia stressed.

The Guardian

In "Not of This World," it is sometimes a great task to get through the everyday.

The New York Times

It's not impossible on normal entry into the city, but with the backups with trucks still being stopped and searched, it's become a great task".

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Abroad a greater task is already evident: welding the new emerging powers to the West.

The Economist

The writer says he long believed it was his destiny to fight against "the doctor-killer abortionists," but that Mr. Hutton now had given him a greater task: to destroy "the doctor-killer who would murder the innocent child of the Holy Family," Philip Workman.

The New York Times

The Bangkok Post reported in October 2006 that Sonthi was grooming Anupong to be his successor by giving him responsibilities over coup logistics, a greater task than had been assigned to Saprang.

Wikipedia

Who doesn't like to hear that they look nice or did a great job on a task?! OK, I know that it can be difficult to accept compliments sometimes, but deep down, most people like it.

Huffington Post

Blake says that Devyn did a great job on the tough task of taking on Whitney.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a great task", ensure the context clearly reflects the significance or difficulty of the task. Avoid using it for trivial or routine activities.

Common error

Avoid using "a great task" to describe everyday chores or simple assignments. This diminishes the phrase's impact and can make your writing sound hyperbolic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a great task" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object of a sentence. It describes a specific assignment or undertaking. Ludwig shows its use across various contexts to indicate something of considerable importance or magnitude.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Wiki

19%

Science

19%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Academia

6%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a great task" is a common phrase used to describe a significant or challenging undertaking. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely accepted, making it appropriate for both formal and informal contexts, especially in news and media, wiki, and scientific domains. Related phrases like "a significant undertaking" and "a major challenge" can provide alternative ways to express similar ideas. When using "a great task", ensure the context aligns with the phrase's weight, reserving it for situations that genuinely require considerable effort or skill.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant undertaking

Replaces "task" with a more formal and elaborate term, emphasizing the scale and complexity of the endeavor.

a major challenge

Focuses on the difficulty aspect, highlighting the obstacles involved.

a considerable project

Emphasizes the scale and duration of the task, suggesting a well-defined and planned effort.

a substantial endeavor

Similar to "a significant undertaking" but with a slightly more formal tone.

a demanding assignment

Highlights the rigor and effort required to complete the task.

an enormous responsibility

Shifts the focus to the burden and accountability associated with the task.

a Herculean effort

Implies an extremely difficult and demanding task, referencing the mythological hero Hercules.

a formidable undertaking

Stresses the potential difficulties and challenges, presenting the task as something to be approached with caution and respect.

a complex operation

Highlights the intricacy and multiple steps involved in the task.

a monumental achievement

Focuses on the potential positive outcome and impact of successfully completing the task.

FAQs

How can I use "a great task" in a sentence?

Use "a great task" to describe something that requires significant effort, skill, or resources, such as, "Rebuilding the city after the earthquake was "a great task"."

What are some alternatives to "a great task"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a significant undertaking", "a major challenge", or "a substantial endeavor".

Is it appropriate to use "a great task" in formal writing?

Yes, "a great task" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when describing a project or responsibility of considerable importance or difficulty. Consider alternatives such as "a significant undertaking" for an even more formal tone.

What distinguishes "a great task" from "a simple task"?

"A simple task" refers to something easy to accomplish, while ""a great task"" implies a project that demands significant effort, resources, or expertise. The key difference lies in the level of difficulty and complexity.