on the task

USAGE SUMMARY

"on the task" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that is a job, assignment, or activity. For example: I'm determined to stay focused and stay on the task at hand.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Eventually, he took on the task of designing one himself.

Vice

Huntington's respondents took on the task with the utmost seriousness.

The New Yorker

Most only spent one night on the task.

Vice

And if no one wants to take on the task, I unselfishly volunteer my services.

Vice

That, of course, depends on the task.

The New York Times - Tech

Martin's mind focused resolutely on the task.

The Guardian

"Just being focused on the task at hand," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

Iraqis on the task force are under constant threat.

The New York Times

I am concentrating on the task in hand".

The Guardian - Sport

I've tried to be focused on the task in hand.

The Guardian - Film

Our players were not focused on the task at hand.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance clarity, follow "on the task" with a prepositional phrase specifying the nature or goal of the task, for example, "on the task of completing the report".

Common error

A common mistake is assuming the audience understands the full scope of the task. Always provide enough context to ensure everyone is aligned on what "on the task" entails.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the task" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb or noun, indicating focus, engagement, or responsibility toward a specific duty or assignment. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

21%

Wiki

21%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on the task" is a commonly used prepositional phrase that indicates focus, engagement, or responsibility towards a specific job or assignment. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and versatile. The phrase is frequently used in news, science, and general writing, emphasizing the importance of dedication and concentration. While generally neutral in tone, context dictates whether a more formal or specific alternative might be appropriate. To use the phrase effectively, ensure clarity by defining the task being referenced and providing sufficient context for your audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

focused on the objective

Emphasizes concentration on a specific goal, shifting from the general activity to the desired outcome.

engaged in the assignment

Highlights active participation and involvement in the given work, differing from a passive perspective.

dedicated to the duty

Implies a strong commitment and sense of responsibility towards the assigned task.

absorbed in the activity

Suggests a deep level of immersion and attentiveness, focusing on the process rather than the obligation.

concentrating on the matter

Highlights mental focus and attentiveness to the issue at hand, slightly more formal.

attentive to the project

Focuses on careful and thoughtful consideration of the work, especially in a professional setting.

preoccupied with the work

Suggests that the task is taking up a significant amount of someone's thoughts and attention.

involved in the undertaking

Emphasizes participation and a sense of responsibility in a larger endeavor or project.

consumed by the challenge

Implies that the task is all-encompassing and demanding a great deal of effort and focus.

occupied with the endeavor

Similar to 'involved', but implies that the task is taking up someone's time and energy.

FAQs

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

You can use "on the task" to indicate someone is focused or working on a specific job or assignment. For example, "The team remained focused "on the task" despite the challenges."

What's the difference between "on the task" and "on the job"?

"On the task" typically refers to a specific assignment or duty, while "on the job" relates more broadly to the general activities and responsibilities of a particular role or employment.

Which is correct, "focus on the task" or "focused on the task"?

Both are correct, but they have different uses. "Focus on the task" is an imperative, a command or suggestion to concentrate. "Focused on the task" describes a state of being, indicating someone is currently concentrating.

What are some alternatives to saying someone is "focused on the task"?

You could say they are "dedicated to the duty", "engaged in the assignment", or "attentive to the project", depending on the context.