embark on the task

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "embark on the task" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate the beginning of a specific task or project. Example: "After careful planning, we are ready to embark on the task of renovating the community center."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Other times the material in a collection may have been amassed over a longer period of time by more than one individual or institution and so the archivist gets to embark on the task of creating order and imposing an organization schema on the materials.

Columbia University

Only when this assumption was abandoned, he thought, could people embark on the task of becoming a Christian.

The Guardian - Opinion

Every four years, as the American people embark on the task of electing a president, Europeans are reminded that they simply don't understand America.

The New York Times - Magazine

Worse still, attempts to improve the system and its cross-border co-ordination have so far failed to do much good.The London Stock Exchange, for example, decided soon after Big Bang to embark on the task of speeding up settlement (then done on a rolling fortnightly basis).

The Economist

Based on results of our own research and stakeholder surveys, the School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at The University of Sydney has identified a number of imperatives for curriculum change, and has used this stimulus to embark on the task of curriculum renewal.

Education for Chemical Engineers

Now we embark on the task of proving Proposition 1.

Bulletin of Mathematical Sciences

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

In the hours after the explosion, shocked officers embarked on the grim task of searching for casualties, at first mistaking shop-window mannequins for bodies.

Independent

The Giants, bless their stable souls, have embarked on the task of getting their Super Bowl house in order.

The New York Times - Sports

As the downturn took hold, he initially showed flexibility, then embarked on the task of securing deficit reductions.

The New York Times

Now, the European Union is embarked on the task of adapting that vision to a very different political landscape.

The New York Times

As the downturn took hold, he showed flexibility, then embarked on the task of securing deficit reductions in the medium term.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "embark on the task" when you want to convey a sense of purpose and formality in starting something, especially a project that requires planning and dedication. For instance, "After securing funding, the team will embark on the task of building the new research facility."

Common error

Avoid using "embark on the task" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "start" or "begin" to maintain a natural tone. Saying "I'm going to embark on the task of making dinner" might sound overly formal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "embark on the task" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to introduce a noun phrase that represents a specific undertaking or project. As Ludwig AI confirms, it indicates the beginning of a planned activity, similar to starting or beginning a task, yet with a more formal tone.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

37%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

4%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "embark on the task" is a grammatically correct phrase used to denote the commencement of a specific undertaking. As Ludwig AI states, it's a valid and usable phrase in written English. While not as common as simpler alternatives like "begin the task" or "start the task", "embark on the task" carries a more formal tone and implies a sense of purpose and commitment. It frequently appears in news and media, scientific, and academic contexts. When writing, ensure its formality aligns with your intended audience and message. Using "begin the task" or "start the task" are great options in more informal scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

begin the task

A more direct and simpler alternative, suitable for most contexts.

start the task

Similar to 'begin the task', offering a straightforward way to express commencement.

undertake the task

Slightly more formal, suggesting a deliberate and possibly significant undertaking.

commence the task

A formal alternative, implying a structured and official start.

set about the task

Suggests tackling the task with a specific approach or method.

initiate the task

Emphasizes the act of starting or setting something in motion.

launch into the task

Implies a more energetic and enthusiastic start.

get down to the task

Suggests a shift to serious and focused effort.

dive into the task

Implies immediate and intensive involvement.

get cracking on the task

An informal phrase meaning to start working quickly.

FAQs

What does "embark on the task" mean?

The phrase "embark on the task" means to start or begin a specific task or project, often with a sense of purpose and commitment.

How can I use "embark on the task" in a sentence?

You can use "embark on the task" to describe the beginning of a significant undertaking. For example, "The organization is ready to embark on the task of improving community relations."

What are some alternatives to "embark on the task"?

You can use alternatives like "begin the task", "start the task", or "undertake the task" depending on the context.

Is "embark on the task" formal or informal?

The phrase "embark on the task" tends to be more formal. In informal settings, simpler alternatives like "start the task" or "begin the task" might be more appropriate.