sisyphean task

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sisyphean task" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to describe a task that is difficult or seemingly impossible to accomplish. For example, "I have been working on this project for months, but it feels like a Sisyphean task, like I'm pushing a boulder up a hill and it just keeps rolling back down."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It's a Sisyphean task.

The New York Times

How about "embark on the Sisyphean task"?

The New York Times

Hours later he repeats his Sisyphean task.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Making clothing factories safer is a Sisyphean task.

The New York Times

Getting schoolchildren to stop using profanity seems a Sisyphean task.

The New York Times

SUNDAY'S PUZZLE — Jeff Chen has set himself a Sisyphean task today in more ways than one.

The New York Times

It's not a Sisyphean task to be scrupulous about using personal e-mail for nongovernment missives.

The New York Times

A Sisyphean task perhaps but worth a go all the same.

The Economist

But even that Sisyphean task looks easy next to the fight against synthetic drugs.

The Economist

Making it past Le Baron's door is a Sisyphean task for those without connections.

The New York Times

Adding T-Mobile's technology to the mix would be an expensive and Sisyphean task.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "sisyphean task", ensure the context clearly indicates a repetitive and seemingly endless effort with little to no progress. This maximizes the impact of the metaphor.

Common error

Avoid using "sisyphean task" to describe everyday chores or minor inconveniences. The phrase is most effective when applied to truly daunting and repetitive challenges, not tasks like doing laundry or washing dishes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sisyphean task" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun, typically to describe the nature of the "task". It denotes a labor that is both repetitive and ultimately pointless, drawing upon the myth of Sisyphus.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sisyphean task" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression, as confirmed by Ludwig. It aptly describes a task characterized by its repetitiveness, difficulty, and seeming lack of progress. Predominantly found in News & Media contexts, it effectively conveys the sense of a never-ending and ultimately futile endeavor. When employing this phrase, ensure the task truly embodies these qualities to maximize its impact and avoid overuse in trivial situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exercise in futility

Directly implies that the task is pointless and without value.

futile effort

Stresses the pointlessness and ineffectiveness of the undertaking.

pointless chore

Emphasizes the lack of purpose and the tedious nature of the duty.

never-ending struggle

Focuses on the continuous and unresolved nature of the effort.

uphill battle

Conveys the difficulty and resistance encountered during the process.

endless labor

Highlights the perpetual and exhaustive nature of the work.

laborious undertaking

Highlights the demanding and strenuous aspects of the task.

fruitless endeavor

Emphasizes the lack of positive outcomes despite significant effort.

impossible mission

Conveys the sense that the task is fundamentally unachievable.

grind

Focuses on the monotonous and wearisome nature of the work.

FAQs

How can I use "sisyphean task" in a sentence?

You can use "sisyphean task" to describe a repetitive and seemingly endless task. For example, "Trying to keep the house clean with three kids felt like a "sisyphean task"".

What does "sisyphean task" mean?

A "sisyphean task" refers to a task that is both repetitive and futile, resembling the punishment of Sisyphus from Greek mythology, who was condemned to roll a boulder uphill only to have it roll back down.

What can I say instead of "sisyphean task"?

Alternatives to "sisyphean task" include "futile effort", "never-ending struggle", or "exercise in futility", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "sisyphean task" in formal writing?

Yes, "sisyphean task" is appropriate for formal writing. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is correct and usable in written English. However, ensure that your audience understands the reference to Greek mythology for maximum impact.