job at hand

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "job at hand" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when talking about a task that needs to be completed or that you're currently working on. For example, "I need to focus on the job at hand and finish this report before the end of the day."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Nevertheless, that is the job at hand.

The Washington Post

We're busy with the job at hand".

The New York Times

Devereux was uniquely qualified for the job at hand.

The New Yorker

"He was totally focused on the job at hand.

The New York Times

He got very focused at the job at hand.

The New York Times - Sports

"I just focus on the job at hand," he demurs.

The New York Times

Give yourself time and always consider the job at hand.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The Islanders have been attentive to the job at hand.

The New York Times - Sports

Your mind empties; you take on the rhythm of the job at hand.

The New York Times - Arts

An induction-motor-powered platform, by contrast, would be optimised for the job at hand.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

In short, Miller did the job at hand---and she did it her way.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "job at hand" to clearly define the immediate task or objective, especially when prioritizing efforts or focusing attention on a specific goal.

Common error

Avoid using "job at hand" too frequently in a single piece of writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "task at hand" or "current objective" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "job at hand" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as the object of a preposition or as a complement. It refers to a specific task or duty that requires immediate attention or focus. Ludwig confirms the phrase's grammatical correctness and widespread usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "job at hand" is a versatile and commonly used expression that refers to the task, project, or duty requiring immediate attention and focus. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, ranging from news reporting to scientific writing. The primary function of the phrase is to emphasize prioritization and direct attention to what needs to be done. While synonyms like "task at hand" and "business at hand" exist, varying language is recommended to avoid overuse. Understanding the nuances and appropriate usage of "job at hand" enhances clarity and effectiveness in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

task at hand

Replaces "job" with "task", emphasizing the specific activity to be done.

business at hand

Substitutes "job" with "business", suggesting a matter requiring attention or action.

work at hand

Replaces "job" with "work", focusing on the effort or labor involved.

assignment at hand

Emphasizes a specific task or duty that has been assigned.

duty at hand

Highlights the obligation or responsibility to be fulfilled.

matter at hand

Focuses on the issue or situation that needs to be dealt with.

objective at hand

Highlights the specific goal or aim that needs to be achieved.

the present task

Focuses on the current action.

the current undertaking

Replaces "job" with "undertaking", emphasizing a project or endeavor.

immediate concern

Highlights the urgency and importance of the task.

FAQs

How can I use "job at hand" in a sentence?

You can use "job at hand" to refer to the task or project that needs to be done or is currently being worked on. For example, "Let's focus on the "job at hand" and finish this report by the deadline."

What can I say instead of "job at hand"?

You can use alternatives like "task at hand", "business at hand", or "work at hand" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "job at hand"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize the immediate task or objective that needs to be addressed, especially in situations where focus and prioritization are important.

What's the difference between "job at hand" and "matter at hand"?

"Job at hand" typically refers to a specific task or project, while "matter at hand" refers to the issue or situation that needs to be addressed. "Matter at hand" is more general and may encompass several jobs or tasks.