focused on the task

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "focused on the task" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when describing someone who is concentrating on a specific activity or objective. For example: - "Julia was completely focused on the task at hand, ignoring any distractions around her." - "The team worked together, each member focused on their individual tasks to achieve the project's goal." - "The students were easily distracted during class, but with some effort, they were able to stay focused on the task assigned by the teacher." - "As an athlete, it's important to stay focused on the task and block out any negative thoughts or distractions." - "The CEO's strict leadership style kept the employees focused on the task and boosted productivity in the workplace."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He talked about the usual things -- taking one game at a time and staying focused on the task at hand.

The New York Times

The worker has focused on the task.

Harvard Business Review

"Just being focused on the task at hand," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

I've tried to be focused on the task in hand.

The Guardian - Film

Our players were not focused on the task at hand.

The New York Times - Sports

Still, they focused on the task at hand.

The New York Times

They listened intently, awake and focused on the task.

University of California, Berkeley

Everyone is focused on the task in hand, getting ready to play their part.

The Guardian - Tech

Instead he praised his team for the way they had focused on the task at hand.

The Guardian - Sport

He remains courtly and approachable but intensely focused on the task at hand.

The New York Times - Sports

"As long as I'm focused on the task at hand, I'll do it.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, ensure that the subject is genuinely committed and displaying behaviors that reflect their concentration on the task. This adds authenticity to your description.

Common error

Avoid using "focused on the task" as a generic compliment without providing specific examples or context. Instead of simply stating someone is "focused", illustrate how their actions demonstrate their dedication and concentration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "focused on the task" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun (often implied or stated, such as 'person' or 'team'). It describes a state of concentrated attention and effort directed toward a specific activity. As Ludwig indicates, this describes someone concentrating.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Academia

22%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "focused on the task" is a grammatically sound and widely used phrase that describes a state of concentrated attention on a specific activity. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides ample examples across news, academic, and professional contexts. While alternatives like "dedicated to the task" or "concentrating on the task" exist, this phrase maintains its relevance and versatility. When employing this phrase, be sure to provide context that illustrates the subject's commitment and concentration effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

concentrating on the task

Emphasizes mental effort directed towards the task.

dedicated to the task

Highlights commitment and devotion to the task.

attentive to the task

Focuses on paying close attention and being mindful.

engrossed in the task

Suggests being completely absorbed and immersed in the task.

preoccupied with the task

Indicates that the task is the primary concern.

intent on the task

Highlights a strong determination to complete the task.

absorbed in the task

Similar to engrossed, suggesting complete immersion.

mindful of the task

Emphasizes being aware and careful while performing the task.

fixed on the task

Implies an unwavering focus.

single-minded about the task

Highlights a clear, undivided focus.

FAQs

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

Use "focused on the task" to describe someone's state of mind and actions when they are giving their full attention to a specific activity. For instance, you might say, "She was "concentrating on the task", ignoring all distractions".

What are some alternatives to saying "focused on the task"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "dedicated to the task", "attentive to the task", or "engrossed in the task" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it better to say "focused on the task" or "focused on the goal"?

The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the specific activity or the ultimate objective. "Focused on the task" highlights the immediate work at hand, while "focused on the goal" emphasizes the overall aim. Either is correct, but their impact may differ.

How does being "focused on the task" differ from being "preoccupied with the task"?

While both suggest a high degree of attention, "focused on the task" generally implies a positive and productive concentration. Being "preoccupied with the task" can sometimes carry a negative connotation, suggesting an excessive or anxious level of concern that might hinder performance.