intent on a task

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "intent on a task" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone who is focused or determined to complete a specific task or activity. Example: "She was intent on a task, meticulously organizing the files on her desk."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Into this environment comes Sperling, intent on a single task: to move forward using only some transparent plastic cartons for support, without ever touching the ground himself.

The Guardian

Yesterday in Brussels, a room full of 27 EU presidents, chancellors and prime ministers was intent on a single task, trying to do what financial power demands.

Independent

"Sharpshooter" (1863) finds a Union sniper athletically perched in a tree and intent on his task.

The New Yorker

Spied from afar, the artist in full creative mode presents an extraordinary sight: a small figure bobbing up and down, intent on his task, darting in and out of a cluster of reeds that looks at first glance as though it might have sprung naturally from the shallow waters.

The New York Times

The breakup of the hacker community embittered him and for several years he labored in solitude intent on the incredible task of matching the world's best programmers, writing for free the same programs they were developing on a for-profit basis at their new companies.

The New York Times

With China, Romney seems intent on a trade war.

The New York Times

The truth is, I was intent on a barn.

The New York Times - Magazine

Watts was intent on a wide audience for his work.

The Guardian - Arts

Stoke seemed intent on a damage-limitation exercise.

The Guardian - Sport

Mr. Ma seemed intent on a collaborative performance as well.

The New York Times - Arts

But South, intent on a vulnerable game, bid four hearts.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "intent on a task" to convey a sense of focused determination and purpose. It suggests that someone is not easily distracted and is committed to completing the task at hand.

Common error

Avoid using "intent" passively. Instead of saying "The task was intended on", use "They were intent on completing the task". This maintains clarity and emphasizes the actor's focus.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intent on a task" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to describe someone's state of mind. According to Ludwig, the phrase is usable in written English. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "intent on a task" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe someone's focused determination. Ludwig's analysis confirms its validity and provides examples from diverse sources like news media and scientific publications. While its register is generally neutral, the phrase effectively conveys a sense of purposeful engagement. Alternatives such as "focused on the objective" or "determined to achieve the goal" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Remember to use "intent" actively to maintain clarity and emphasize the actor's focus.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

focused on the objective

Emphasizes concentration on the end goal rather than the activity itself.

determined to achieve the goal

Highlights resolve and purposefulness in accomplishing something.

committed to the endeavor

Stresses dedication and investment in a particular undertaking.

engrossed in the activity

Focuses on being deeply absorbed and occupied by what one is doing.

absorbed in the work

Indicates complete mental immersion in the task at hand.

dedicated to the mission

Suggests a strong sense of commitment and purpose towards a specific goal.

concentrating on the matter

Highlights the act of directing one's attention and mental effort.

intent on realizing the vision

Emphasizes the focused determination to make a specific idea or goal a reality.

resolved to complete the job

Emphasizes the firm decision and commitment to finishing a task.

hell-bent on the assignment

Uses a more forceful idiom to convey unwavering focus and determination, though less formal.

FAQs

How can I use "intent on a task" in a sentence?

You can use "intent on a task" to describe someone who is focused and determined to complete a specific activity. For example, "She was "intent on a task", meticulously organizing the files on her desk."

What are some alternatives to "intent on a task"?

You can use alternatives like "focused on the objective", "determined to achieve the goal", or "committed to the endeavor" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "intended on a task"?

No, "intended on a task" is not grammatically correct. The correct usage is "intent on a task", which describes someone's state of mind or purpose.

What is the difference between "intent on a task" and "focused on a task"?

While both phrases convey concentration, ""intent on a task"" often implies a stronger sense of determination and purpose compared to "focused on a task". Intent suggests a firm commitment to achieving the task.