a task force

USAGE SUMMARY

"task force" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to a group of people assigned to work together on a specific task or project. For example, "The mayor created a task force to investigate discrepancies in the city budget."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A task force!

Independent

(When in doubt, create a task force).

The Economist

There's a task force on breast cancer.

Columbia University

A task force of leading management specialists.

The New York Times

A task force is drafting new rules.

The New York Times

He set up a task force.

The Washington Post

Well, there's a task force on the colon.

Columbia University

A task force is reviewing the University's distribution requirements.

Princeton University

In 2005, a task force convened by acting Gov.

The New York Times

He has also created a task force improving the program.

The New York Times

President Obama appointed a task force to examine police reform.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When forming "a task force", clearly define its objectives, scope, and timeline to ensure focused and efficient work.

Common error

Avoid creating "a task force" with overlapping responsibilities with existing teams, as this can lead to confusion and inefficiency. Ensure the task force has a unique and clearly defined mandate.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "a task force" is as a noun phrase. It typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence, referring to a specific group of individuals assembled to address a particular problem or achieve a defined objective. Ludwig indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Wiki

10%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"A task force" is a common noun phrase used to describe a group of people assembled for a specific purpose or project. It is grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, including news, academia, and business, as indicated by Ludwig. The phrase generally has a neutral to professional register and functions to designate a dedicated team formed to address a problem or achieve a goal. Effective use involves clearly defining the task force's objectives and scope. Common alternatives include "a working group" and "a committee".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a working group

Focuses on the collaborative aspect of the group's work.

a committee

Emphasizes the formal structure and assigned duties of the group.

an ad hoc team

Highlights the temporary nature and specific purpose of the team.

an investigative panel

Specifies that the group's primary role is to investigate something.

a special commission

Implies a formal and official assignment.

a rapid response team

Emphasizes the speed and urgency of the group's actions.

an expert group

Focuses on the expertise and knowledge of the group members.

a focus group

Highlights the group's role in gathering specific feedback or insights.

a project team

Emphasizes the project-oriented nature of the group.

an advisory board

Focuses on the group's role in providing advice and guidance.

FAQs

How can "a task force" be used effectively in a sentence?

"A task force" is used to describe a group formed to address a specific issue. For example, "The president appointed "a task force" to investigate the matter".

What's a good alternative to using the term "a task force"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "a working group", "a committee", or "an ad hoc team".

What distinguishes "a task force" from a regular committee?

"A task force" is typically assembled for a specific, short-term project, whereas a committee often has a more permanent role and broader mandate. The key distinction is often the time-bound and focused nature of the task force.

When is it appropriate to establish "a task force"?

It is appropriate to form "a task force" when a specific problem or project requires focused attention and expertise from a dedicated group. This is especially useful when the issue is complex and requires a coordinated effort.