get on task

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "get on task" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when encouraging someone to focus on their work or responsibilities. Example: "We have a lot to accomplish today, so let's get on task and start the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Get on task -- Set cell phone To-do list, multiple calendar alarms as reminders (Sometimes a list of priority tasks, jobs or sales appointments is kept by a production coordinator, staff member, receptionist or clerk).. Manage/Coordinate production jobs/projects -- Schedule on spreadsheet; job or project board.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

For all its stirring music, listeners get on with their mid-morning tasks.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

They're also very good at just getting on with a task and getting the job done".

The Guardian

Another excuse for not getting on with a task is the deadline seems to be, what feels like, months away.

Independent

Risking embarrassment and failure are a part of being human, and learning and honing your skills is often built on trial and error, through getting on with the task and doing it.

WikiHow

To get on the task force, an officer has to get his gold shield, make the rank of detective.

The New York Times

It's our job out here to get on with the task at hand and win a series for England".

The Guardian - Sport

As long as it's not on me.' And they could get on with the task of mourning".

The New York Times - Health

And then let it get on with the task of living up to being Africa's Number One.

The Economist

To get on with the task of picking up the pieces, the living literally still had to step over the dead on this city's streets.

The New York Times

They are there to cover the backsides of congressmen while they get on with the task of extracting cash from lobbyists.This is what makes Senator Mitch McConnell so refreshing.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "get on task" when you want to encourage immediate action or a return to focus. It's suitable for motivating yourself or others to start or resume working on something specific.

Common error

Don't use "get on task" without specifying which task you're referring to. Ambiguity can lead to confusion and reduced productivity. Always provide context to ensure clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "get on task" functions as an idiomatic expression used to initiate or resume work on a specific activity. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It is often used as an imperative, encouraging action.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "get on task" is a common and grammatically sound idiom used to encourage focus and the commencement or resumption of work. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely employed across various contexts, especially in news and media. While its register is typically neutral to informal, it can be utilized in professional settings with careful consideration. Alternatives like "focus on the task" or "begin the task" can be employed depending on the desired tone and level of formality. When using "get on task", ensure the specific task is clearly defined to avoid any ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

focus on the task

Emphasizes concentration and attention to the task, differing from "get on task" which implies commencement or resumption.

start working on the task

Specifically highlights the beginning of work, unlike "get on task" which can also mean resuming work.

begin the task

A more formal way to indicate the start of a task, differing in register from "get on task".

resume the task

Indicates a return to the task after an interruption, a specific case of "get on task".

return to the task

Similar to 'resume the task', highlighting a return to the work at hand.

re-engage with the task

Emphasizes renewed involvement and focus, adding an element of commitment to "get on task".

get back to work

Focuses on the resumption of work in general, rather than a specific task, making it broader than "get on task".

apply oneself to the task

Stresses dedication and effort, adding a layer of personal commitment not necessarily present in "get on task".

address the task

Suggests a direct and problem-solving approach, differing from the more general "get on task".

undertake the task

A more formal way of expressing commitment to the task, signifying a serious approach.

FAQs

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

Use "get on task" to encourage a focus on starting or resuming a specific activity. For example, "We need to finish this project, so let's "get on task" immediately."

What are some alternatives to "get on task"?

Alternatives include "focus on the task", "start working on the task", or "begin the task", depending on the desired level of formality and emphasis.

Is "get on task" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "get on task" is generally more suitable for informal or neutral contexts. For formal writing, consider alternatives like "undertake the task" or "address the task".

What does it mean to "get back on task"?

"Get back on task" means to refocus and resume working on something after an interruption or distraction. It emphasizes a return to the original activity or goal.