a terrible task

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a terrible task" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a job or duty that is particularly difficult, unpleasant, or burdensome. Example: "Cleaning out the garage was a terrible task that I had been avoiding for months."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Coping with the aftermath of genocide is a terrible task.

The Economist

And what a terrible task he set for himself - trying to find sustenance in territory already picked clean.

The New York Times - Arts

"It was a terrible task to tell them," said Reuven Feuerstein, a retired professor of psychology who is responsible for the group home, called the Azriely Dedcher Hadassah Wizo Canada Center.

The New York Times

It's a terrible task for a screenwriter". Roald's movie track record is more mixed than his publishing performance.

Los Angeles Times

It comes with a price, and Ukrainians are paying that price with the blood of their countrymen - a terrible task, indeed.

Huffington Post

Freedom is a desire for all of us, yes, but shedding the blood of your own countrymen for freedom is a terrible task for any man to live with".

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

One of the last things we see is the gunman, approaching with a large bag and a purposeful smile, and slipping through a security door to begin his terrible task.

The New Yorker

We gave her the terrible task of going on an adventure with her pals to swimming spots outside of the city and now we want to get our hands on an inflatable donut and follow suit.

Vice

"What is it, this terrible task he's set you?" " 'Write About an Event That Changed Your Life,' " George said with mournful sarcasm.

The New Yorker

But it was a terrible task.

The Guardian

"She had the terrible task of saying over and over again: 'I'm sorry, we can't help you.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a task as "a terrible task", ensure the context clearly conveys why it is so difficult or unpleasant. Providing specific reasons enhances the reader's understanding and empathy.

Common error

While "terrible" is widely understood, consider using more nuanced synonyms like "daunting", "onerous", or "formidable" in formal writing to convey the specific nature of the task's difficulty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a terrible task" functions as a noun phrase, where "terrible" acts as a descriptive adjective modifying the noun "task". It identifies and characterizes a specific action or duty.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a terrible task" is a grammatically correct and usable expression, primarily found in news and media contexts, as confirmed by Ludwig. It describes a task that is notably difficult or unpleasant. While it's a valid phrase, synonyms like "daunting", "onerous", or "formidable" may offer more nuance in formal writing. Understanding the appropriate register and context is key to effectively using this phrase, as well as avoiding the overuse of the adjective "terrible" in formal writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an awful job

Replaces "task" with "job" and "terrible" with "awful", indicating a similar level of unpleasantness.

a dreadful undertaking

Uses "undertaking" instead of "task" to emphasize the scale of the endeavor, and "dreadful" to highlight its unpleasant nature.

a horrible chore

Substitutes "task" with "chore", suggesting a routine but unpleasant duty, and "terrible" with "horrible" for similar impact.

a grueling assignment

Emphasizes the exhausting nature of the task using "grueling", while "assignment" suggests a formal duty.

an onerous duty

Highlights the burdensome nature of the task with "onerous", replacing "task" with the more formal "duty".

a formidable challenge

Focuses on the difficulty of the task using "formidable", presenting it as a test of strength or skill, changes also from "task" to "challenge".

a daunting endeavor

Highlights the intimidating aspect of the task with "daunting", while "endeavor" suggests a serious attempt or effort.

an unpleasant obligation

Downplays the intensity while still noting how unwelcome the activity is. Replaces "terrible" with "unpleasant" and "task" with "obligation".

a Herculean effort

Implies the task requires immense strength and effort, referencing the mythological hero Hercules.

a disagreeable responsibility

Underlines the unwelcome and obligatory aspect of the task, changes also from "task" to "responsibility" to make it more formal.

FAQs

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

You can use "a terrible task" to describe something difficult, unpleasant, or burdensome. For example, "Cleaning the attic was "a terrible task" that took all day".

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

You can use alternatives like "a daunting task", "an awful job", or "a grueling assignment" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "a terrible task" or "a terribly task"?

"A terrible task" is correct. "Terrible" is an adjective modifying the noun "task". "Terribly" is an adverb and would not be appropriate in this phrase.

What makes "a terrible task" different from "a challenging task"?

"A terrible task" implies a higher degree of unpleasantness or difficulty compared to "a challenging task". While both suggest difficulty, "terrible" conveys a stronger negative connotation.