monumental undertaking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "monumental undertaking" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a task or project that is very large, significant, or challenging in scope. Example: "The construction of the new bridge was a monumental undertaking that required years of planning and collaboration."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

ON CHECKING ALL FLIGHT SCHOOLS -- It was a monumental undertaking.

The New York Times

So in a way this monumental undertaking has become familiar.

The New York Times

Rebuilding the Orioles is a monumental undertaking, from the top down.

The New York Times - Sports

Officials said that restoring service on the PATH lines had been a monumental undertaking.

The New York Times

This trailer gives a sense of their monumental undertaking and the spectacular footage that resulted.

Cornell University

Impeachment is a monumental undertaking so you better have reason to do so.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

That title was changed to Code Napoléon in 1807 to honour the emperor who, as first consul of the republic, had brought to completion the monumental legislative undertaking.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Capital is a monumental, admirable undertaking: a richer, more surprising, frankly more readable book than Goldsmith's blank conceptual gambit seems to promise.

The Guardian - Books

Maybe the joy of the season and the love for your kids filled your heart to the point that you've now forgotten the juggling and the exhaustion and the overall monumental holiday undertaking.

HuffPost

And maybe you don't see it the way I do (and maybe I exaggerate, but only a little), or maybe the joy of the season and the love for your kids filled your heart to the point that you've now forgotten the juggling and the exhaustion and the overall monumental holiday undertaking.

Huffington Post

You will downplay the work and the loneliness, saying "you did what you had to do". And maybe you don't see it the way I do (and maybe I exaggerate, but only a little), or maybe the joy of the season and the love for your kids filled your heart to the point that you've now forgotten the juggling and the exhaustion and the overall monumental holiday undertaking.

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and context when using "monumental undertaking". While widely understood, ensure it aligns with the formality and tone of the writing.

Common error

Avoid using "monumental undertaking" for routine or minor tasks. The phrase should be reserved for situations genuinely deserving of such a description to maintain its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "monumental undertaking" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object or subject complement in a sentence. It describes a specific endeavor characterized by its significant scale, complexity, and challenge, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

18%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "monumental undertaking" is a widely recognized and grammatically sound expression used to describe tasks of significant scale and complexity. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts. With a neutral register, it is suitable for both formal and informal communication. When writing, it’s important to reserve this phrase for genuinely deserving situations to maintain its impact and avoid overuse. Alternatives like "Herculean task" or "massive endeavor" can provide nuanced emphasis. As Ludwig examples show, "monumental undertaking" effectively conveys the considerable effort, resources, and ambition associated with a particularly challenging project.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Herculean task

Highlights the immense effort and strength required, similar to the labors of Hercules.

Formidable challenge

Emphasizes the difficulty and the need for skill to overcome.

Massive endeavor

Focuses on the large scale and scope of the project.

Significant project

Highlights the importance and potential impact of the undertaking.

Ambitious enterprise

Stresses the boldness and far-reaching goals of the project.

Complex operation

Emphasizes the intricate and multifaceted nature of the task.

Daunting prospect

Highlights the intimidating and potentially overwhelming nature of the undertaking.

Grand scheme

Focuses on the ambitious and elaborate planning involved.

Extensive operation

Highlights the wide-ranging and thorough nature of the activity.

Considerable task

Emphasizes the significant amount of work and resources needed.

FAQs

How can I use "monumental undertaking" in a sentence?

You can use "monumental undertaking" to describe a task or project that requires a significant amount of effort and resources. For example, "Building the Panama Canal was a "monumental undertaking" that took years to complete".

What are some alternatives to "monumental undertaking"?

Some alternatives to "monumental undertaking" include "Herculean task", "formidable challenge", or "massive endeavor". The best choice depends on the specific context and the aspect you want to emphasize.

Is it appropriate to use "monumental undertaking" in formal writing?

Yes, "monumental undertaking" is suitable for formal writing. It is a well-understood and widely accepted phrase that effectively conveys the scale and difficulty of a project.

What distinguishes a "monumental undertaking" from a simple task?

A "monumental undertaking" implies a project that is exceptionally large, complex, and challenging, often requiring significant resources and time. A simple task, by contrast, is relatively straightforward and requires minimal effort.