multitask

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "multitask" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the ability to perform multiple tasks simultaneously or manage several tasks at once. Example: "In today's fast-paced work environment, employees are often expected to multitask effectively to meet deadlines."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In fact, when he and his University of Utah colleague, the social psychologist David Sanbomnatsu, asked more than three hundred students to rate their ability to multitask and then compared those ratings to the students' actual multitasking performances, they found a strong relationship: an inverse one.

The New Yorker

Thatcher showed that a woman could do anything, but she wasn't a feminist – although she did sometimes make it obvious that she thought men were the weaker sex because they couldn't multitask.

The Guardian

In her view, the cross-talk between them in women, suggested by the wiring diagrams, helps explain their better memories, social adeptness and ability to multitask, all of which benefit from the hemispheres collaborating.

The Economist

His students, even his best, assure him that they may multitask efficiently, despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary from their personal lives and grades.The auditorium represents a rare lacuna, and not just on college campuses.

The Economist

"Primetime" for BuzzFeed is 10pm, when people multitask while they watch TV.

The Economist

Luckily the beauty world is full of clever little products that can multitask.

Independent

"I cannot fault the help I've received, but anorexia has taken away my concentration, my ability to multitask, even some of my friends.

Independent

"You are losing some time and mental energy in that switch, so you are slower and more error prone when you multitask," she said.

Independent

Backed in the US by a high-profile advertising campaign designed to highlight the shortcomings of its Apple competitor with tag lines such as "iDon't multitask", a reference to the iPhones inability to run apps simultaneously, the Droid has made a strong impact in the American mobile market.

Independent

Their raw processing power allows high-end workstations to accommodate high-resolution or three-dimensional graphic interfaces, sophisticated multitask software, and advanced abilities to communicate with other computers.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"You don't get to be a successful businessman like Donald Trump without being able to multitask," she said.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a person's ability to "multitask", provide specific examples to illustrate their proficiency. For instance, instead of saying 'She can multitask effectively', say 'She can manage emails, attend meetings, and prepare reports simultaneously without compromising quality'.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "multitasking" always increases productivity. Research suggests that attempting to do too many things at once can lead to reduced focus and increased errors. Instead, consider prioritizing tasks and focusing on one at a time for better results.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "multitask" is as a verb. It describes the action of performing multiple tasks simultaneously or in quick succession. Ludwig AI's examples demonstrate its use in various contexts, such as managing work responsibilities and using technology.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "multitask" functions primarily as a verb, describing the act of performing multiple tasks simultaneously. Ludwig AI confirms that the usage of "multitask" is grammatically correct and prevalent, especially in News & Media contexts. While often associated with efficiency, it's important to recognize that overestimating one's ability to "multitask" can lead to reduced focus. Alternatives such as "handle multiple tasks concurrently" or "juggle several responsibilities" can be used for variety. Overall, "multitask" is a common and acceptable term for describing the management of multiple activities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

handle multiple tasks concurrently

This alternative emphasizes the simultaneous nature of managing several tasks.

juggle several responsibilities

This alternative uses a metaphor to describe the act of balancing various duties.

manage multiple projects simultaneously

This alternative is specific to project management, highlighting the coordination of several projects.

perform several duties at once

This alternative focuses on the immediate execution of multiple duties.

deal with multiple assignments

This alternative is often used in academic or professional settings to express the management of several assignments.

coordinate various activities

This alternative emphasizes the organization and synchronization of different activities.

undertake diverse tasks

This alternative focuses on engaging in a variety of tasks.

attend to numerous matters

This alternative suggests giving attention to a range of issues or concerns.

address several concerns simultaneously

This alternative highlights the handling of different problems or issues at the same time.

combine different functions

This alternative emphasizes integrating different roles or capabilities.

FAQs

How can I use "multitask" in a sentence?

You can use "multitask" to describe the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. For example, "She can "multitask" effectively by managing emails and attending meetings at the same time."

What are some alternatives to "multitask"?

You can use alternatives like "handle multiple tasks concurrently", "juggle several responsibilities", or "manage multiple projects simultaneously" depending on the context.

Is it always beneficial to "multitask"?

While "multitasking" is often seen as a valuable skill, it's not always beneficial. Studies suggest that focusing on one task at a time can improve concentration and reduce errors. Overestimating your ability to "multitask" can lead to decreased productivity.

What skills are associated with the ability to "multitask"?

Skills associated with the ability to "multitask" include time management, organization, prioritization, and attention to detail. These skills help individuals effectively "multitask" and maintain productivity.