prove equal to the task

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "prove equal to the task" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in a sentence to describe someone or something that is up to the challenge or able to meet necessary demands. Example sentence: After studying for months, she was finally ready to prove equal to the task of passing her final exam.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

But those proxy forces do not always prove equal to the task, and when they buckle, the United States finds itself having unwittingly armed its enemies — a problem the Obama administration has been trying to avoid in Syria by carefully limiting its aid to the opposition there.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The for-profit education industry has proven equal to the task".

The Guardian - Opinion

The Baron's Cloak is full of insight and logistical sophistication, and Sunderland proves equal to the task.

Cornell University

But Mr. Hahn proved equal to the task, surprising those who'd mistaken his low-key demeanor for an internal ethical compass.

The New York Times

This time the Salford defence proved equal to the task, but having soaked up the pressure, Andy Coley gave away a penalty and Cooke made it 6-0 after 26 minutes.

The Guardian - Sport

The Team Sky leader had placed the race leader, Nairo Quintana, under pressure in Friday's time trial stage, slashing the Colombian's advantage to less than 90sec, but Quintana proved equal to the task in the final mountain-top finish at Alto de Aitana, repelling several attacks from Froome and eventually surging clear himself to clinch the overall title.

The Guardian - Sport

In his two international outings to date – the first in Edinburgh, the second in Rome – he proved equal to the task, but hitting the spot from all angles and distances is easier when the principal game-management duties are being performed by someone else.

Independent

"The charismatic Idris Elba proves equal to the task".

BBC

Ireland threw all they had left at Wales in the closing stages, but the defence coached by Shaun Edwards proved equal to the task.

BBC

But in last season's Wales Under-20 tight-head prop Samson Lee and erstwhile Wales captain Matthew Rees at hooker alongside veteran loose-head Phil John, the hosts proved equal to the task.

BBC

Paul Ryan believes that Boehner will prove equal to the challenge.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "prove equal to the task", ensure the context clearly defines the specific task or challenge being addressed. This adds clarity and impact to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "prove equal to the task" in situations where simpler phrases like "succeed" or "manage" would suffice. This phrase is most effective when emphasizing overcoming a significant hurdle.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "prove equal to the task" functions as a verb phrase that often expresses a judgment or observation about someone's ability to successfully handle a challenge. Ludwig AI affirms the correctness and usability of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Academia

25%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Science

8%

Formal & Business

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "prove equal to the task" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to describe someone successfully handling a challenge. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability. Predominantly found in News & Media, Academia, and Encyclopedia contexts, it indicates competence and emphasizes the ability to meet expectations. While simpler alternatives exist, this phrase adds a layer of formality and is most impactful when highlighting the surmounting of a significant hurdle. Common errors include overuse in simple contexts where simpler alternatives are more effective. Related phrases, such as "rise to the occasion", offer nuanced alternatives to convey specific aspects of handling a challenge.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be up to the challenge

Indicates possessing the necessary skills or qualities.

rise to the occasion

Implies successfully handling an unexpected challenge with distinction.

measure up to the challenge

Focuses on meeting the required standards or expectations.

show oneself capable

Emphasizes the demonstration of ability through action.

be capable of handling

Emphasizes the ability to manage or deal with something effectively.

be a match for

Suggests being able to compete with or overcome a particular obstacle.

demonstrate competence in

Highlights the proven ability to perform a task well.

handle with aplomb

Implies dealing with a situation confidently and gracefully.

succeed in

Focuses on achieving a positive outcome despite difficulties.

be equal to

A more concise way of expressing capability but lacks the emphasis on 'task'.

FAQs

How can I use "prove equal to the task" in a sentence?

You can use "prove equal to the task" to describe someone or something demonstrating the ability to handle a demanding situation or challenge effectively. For example, "The new manager had to quickly prove equal to the task of leading the struggling team."

What are some alternatives to "prove equal to the task"?

Alternatives include "rise to the occasion", "be up to the challenge", or "measure up to the challenge", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "prove equal to the task" and "be equal to the task"?

"Prove equal to the task" implies a demonstration or validation of capability, whereas "be equal to the task" simply states the capability exists. The former suggests overcoming a test, the latter a general state.

In what contexts is "prove equal to the task" most appropriately used?

This phrase is best suited for situations involving significant challenges, high expectations, or critical responsibilities. It's often used in professional, academic, or news contexts to highlight competence under pressure.