a simple task

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a simple task" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a task that is easy to complete or understand. Example: "This project involves a simple task that anyone can accomplish with minimal effort."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

A simple task for a smartphone.

The New York Times

It was not a simple task.

The New York Times

But creating these programs is not always a simple task.

The New York Times - Travel

Is there a simple task you'd like to perfect?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Getting directions to the tube was a simple task.

The Guardian - Film

A simple task – particularly given Germany's engineering excellence.

The Guardian

Not a simple task, but for Twitter an unavoidable one.

The New Yorker

Adding a currency is not a simple task, however.

The Economist

"It's not going to be a simple task," he continued.

Independent

But his concentration can drift just as quickly on a simple task.

The New York Times - Sports

A simple task might be to find a creature that delivers mail from Hogswarts.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a task that requires minimal effort or expertise, use "a simple task" to clearly convey its ease and accessibility. This phrase is widely understood and accepted across various contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "a simple task" when the task involves intricate details or requires specialized knowledge. Overstating simplicity can undermine credibility if the audience perceives the task as more complex than described.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a simple task" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. Examples from the provided data illustrate its use in various contexts, such as describing the ease of an action or the lack of complexity involved.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

28%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a simple task" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that effectively conveys ease and lack of complexity. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide acceptance. It is versatile, fitting into various contexts from news and media to scientific and formal writing. While alternatives like "an easy task" or "a straightforward task" exist, the original phrase remains a clear and concise way to describe an uncomplicated activity. Remember to use this phrase when accurately representing the ease of a task and avoid overstating its simplicity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an easy task

Replaces "simple" with "easy", emphasizing the lack of difficulty.

a straightforward task

Substitutes "simple" with "straightforward", highlighting the direct and uncomplicated nature of the task.

a basic task

Replaces "simple" with "basic", suggesting the task is fundamental or elementary.

a routine task

Implies the task is performed regularly and is not complex.

a manageable task

Focuses on the ease with which the task can be handled or controlled.

a painless task

Highlights the lack of effort or discomfort involved.

a piece of cake

Idiomatic expression implying the task is very easy.

a walk in the park

Another idiomatic expression suggesting the task is effortless.

a trivial task

Indicates the task is of little importance or significance.

a no-brainer

Informal term for a task that requires little thought.

FAQs

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

You can use "a simple task" to describe something that is easy to accomplish. For example, "Downloading the file was "a simple task"."

What can I say instead of "a simple task"?

You can use alternatives like "an easy job", "a straightforward assignment", or "a basic task" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a simple task" in a formal setting?

Yes, "a simple task" is appropriate for both formal and informal settings, as it is a common and widely understood phrase.

What is the difference between "a simple task" and "an easy task"?

While "a simple task" and "an easy task" are very similar, "simple" often implies a lack of complexity, whereas "easy" implies a lack of difficulty. They are largely interchangeable in most contexts.