not up to the task

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not up to the task" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It means that someone or something is not able to handle or accomplish a particular task or challenge. Example: The new manager proved to be not up to the task of leading the team to success. Instead, he caused confusion and setbacks with his indecisiveness.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I was not up to the task".

The New York Times

With few exceptions, they were not up to the task.

The New York Times

The EU budget is not up to the task.

The Guardian - Business

Are our priests and rabbis not up to the task?

The Economist

Unfortunately, he adds, employers are not up to the task.

The New York Times

Meanwhile, the regulators are clearly not up to the task.

The New York Times

Unfortunately Ms. Daly was not up to the task.

The New York Times

Mr Morsi was not up to the task.

The Economist

Increasingly, education experts say, school boards are not up to the task.

The New York Times

But for the more complex proteins made here, bacteria are not up to the task.

The New York Times

Some of our partners thought we were 'cake-eaters', and not up to the task.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "not up to the task", ensure the context clearly defines what the task is. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens the statement's impact.

Common error

Avoid using "not up to the task" when a more specific term related to skill or knowledge deficit would be more accurate. Using precise language enhances clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not up to the task" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate a lack of capability or competence. As Ludwig AI confirms, this is a standard English construction used to describe inadequacy in performing a specified duty. The examples show a common function across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "not up to the task" is a common and grammatically correct way to express that someone or something lacks the ability or competence to handle a specific duty or challenge. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical validity and widespread use. As shown by Ludwig's examples, it is most frequently found in news and media sources, and its neutral register makes it suitable for both formal and informal communication. Alternatives include "incapable of handling the situation" and "not equal to the challenge", though the best choice depends on context. When using this phrase, ensure the task is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not equal to the challenge

Focuses on a specific challenge and the inability to overcome it.

incapable of handling the situation

Focuses on a specific situation rather than a general task.

unfit for the role

Highlights the unsuitability for a particular function or responsibility.

not competent enough for the job

Emphasizes the lack of required skills or qualifications.

unable to meet the demands

Highlights the inability to satisfy requirements or expectations.

deficient in the required abilities

Stresses the inadequacy of necessary abilities.

lacking the necessary skills

Points out the absence of specific skills needed.

not qualified for the position

Emphasizes the lack of formal qualifications or experience.

falling short of expectations

Highlights the failure to achieve the desired outcome or standard.

out of one's depth

Suggests being in a situation too difficult to manage.

FAQs

How can I use "not up to the task" in a sentence?

You can use "not up to the task" to describe someone or something that lacks the ability or competence to handle a particular task or challenge. For instance, "The old equipment was "not up to the task" of processing the large amount of data."

What are some alternatives to "not up to the task"?

Alternatives to "not up to the task" include "incapable of handling the situation", "unable to meet the demands", or "not equal to the challenge". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Which is correct, "not up to the task" or "not up to task"?

"Not up to the task" is the correct and more common phrasing. Omitting the article 'the' can sound unnatural and grammatically incorrect in most contexts.

What's the difference between "not up to the task" and "in over one's head"?

While both phrases imply a lack of competence, "not up to the task" suggests a general inability to perform a specific task. "In over one's head", on the other hand, implies that someone is facing a situation that is too difficult for them to manage, suggesting a deeper level of overwhelm.