set the task

USAGE SUMMARY

'set the task' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to indicate when someone has been assigned a task to complete. For example: "The professor set the task of writing a 5-page essay to each student in the class."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

"I set the task.

The New York Times - Arts

The suspension of work would set the task back by a couple of days, he said.

The New York Times

Set the task of cutting their combined deficit last year, they did the opposite, increasing it by some 14% instead.

The Economist

Set the task of commuting from event to event by tube and bus, how would this correspondent fare in real time?

The Guardian - Sport

When she's first set the task of looking after Bod, a child raised in the graveyard, she is strict and seems lacking in empathy.

The Guardian

Finally, both girls and boys were set the task of creating a music video to help raise awareness about homophobia in school sport.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

He, rather than Thatcher, set the tasks for the unit.

The Guardian

format, Campbell set the tasks, or took suggestions from the audience.

The Guardian

Set the tasks for the day and use the stickers as rewards when they've finshed.

Independent

Taking players to a stunning animated world, Ori sets the task of guiding its eponymous hero – a diminutive sprite – to help save the mystical forest he calls home.

The Guardian - Tech

In life, we may be cogs in the commercial machine, but in Harvest Moon, the player sets the tasks as the seasons gently change around them.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the tone and formality of your writing. While "set the task" is generally acceptable in various contexts, more formal settings might benefit from alternatives like "assign the task" or "establish the task".

Common error

Avoid vagueness by explicitly defining the requirements and scope of the task when using "set the task". Ambiguity can lead to confusion and inefficiency, so precise communication is crucial.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set the task" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the action of assigning a specific duty or objective. It is frequently used to describe the act of giving someone responsibility for a particular job or duty. This function is supported by Ludwig AI's analysis and the various examples provided.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "set the task" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe the assignment of a specific duty or goal. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various contexts. The analysis of real-world examples reveals that this phrase is most frequently found in news and media, science, and wiki sources, indicating its broad applicability. While generally neutral in tone, more formal synonyms might be preferred in academic or scientific writing. When employing "set the task", ensure clarity by explicitly defining the requirements and scope of the assignment to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

assign the task

This alternative directly emphasizes the act of assigning the task to someone.

define the task

This highlights the act of clarifying and outlining what the task involves.

establish the task

Focuses on creating or setting up the task at hand.

undertake the task

This emphasizes the commencement and active engagement with the task.

take on the task

Highlights the acceptance and responsibility for completing the task.

embark on the task

Suggests a beginning or start to a potentially lengthy or involved task.

begin the task

Simple and direct, indicating the start of the task execution.

initiate the task

Focuses on formally starting or launching the task.

get down to the task

Emphasizes the active commencement and diligent pursuit of the task.

address the task

Implies dealing with or focusing on the task.

FAQs

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

You can use "set the task" to describe assigning a specific duty or goal. For example, "The manager "set the task" of increasing sales to the marketing team."

What are some alternatives to "set the task"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "assign the task", "define the task", or "undertake the task".

Is "set the task" formal or informal?

"Set the task" is generally considered neutral in formality. While acceptable in various contexts, more formal settings might benefit from alternatives like "establish the task".

What does it mean to "set oneself the task"?

To "set oneself the task" means to assign a task or duty to oneself, often implying a personal challenge or goal. For example, "He "set himself the task" of learning a new language."