sole task

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sole task" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It commonly refers to the one specific task that is assigned or expected from someone, without any additional tasks or responsibilities. Example: The sole task of the receptionist is to answer phone calls and greet visitors. Some other examples of how to use "sole task" in a sentence are: - The sole task of the students was to complete the group project by the end of the week. - Tom's sole task for the day was to finish the report and submit it to his boss. - As a detective, solving the case was my sole task and I was determined to do it successfully. - The coach emphasized that the team's sole task is to win the championship. - Jenny's sole task at the event was to take photos for the company's social media pages.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

For 350 years its sole task has been to produce a definitive French dictionary.

The New York Times

Their sole task was to identify and treat patients suffering depression and anxiety.

The New York Times - Health

As such, taking responsibility for passing, saving and shooting for goal is the player's sole task.

The Guardian - Tech

Philosophy's sole task, in his view, is to determine what reason can and cannot do.

Britannica

You have no views of your own; your sole task is to get something done.

The Times

Did we mention that one staff member's sole task is to polish those fragile glasses?

The Washington Post

There is a coffee runner whose sole task is to bring coffee from the barista to guests.

The New York Times - Magazine

Darlington council's family placement service has a paid intern whose sole task is to manage a dedicated Facebook page and Twitter feed.

The Guardian

He attends the world around him as though given the sole task of keeping track of it: "The day is damp and fresh as a peeled stick".

The New York Times - Books

The sole task for a Christian is to bring as many others as possible to Christ, so that they can escape the tribulation to come.

The New Yorker

Apple employs three recruiters whose sole task is to identify designers to join the group; they find perhaps one a year.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "sole task", ensure it accurately reflects that no other responsibilities are involved. Overuse can sound repetitive; consider synonyms like "primary responsibility" or "main objective" for variety.

Common error

Avoid using "sole task" if the person or entity has additional minor responsibilities. It implies complete exclusivity, so ensure this is accurate to prevent misrepresentation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sole task" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object of a sentence. It identifies and emphasizes the single, exclusive responsibility assigned to a person, group, or entity. Ludwig shows many examples of its descriptive function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Academia

18%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Science

7%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sole task" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase that signifies a single, exclusive responsibility. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase functions to clarify and emphasize this singular focus, often appearing in news, academic, and professional contexts. When writing, ensure that the use of "sole task" accurately reflects the exclusivity of the assigned duty, and consider synonyms for variety. Remember that while "sole task" is a common expression, precision in its application ensures clarity and avoids misrepresentation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

single responsibility

Emphasizes the singular nature of the duty.

only responsibility

Highlights the exclusivity of the responsibility.

principal duty

Similar to primary duty, but perhaps slightly more formal.

primary duty

Focuses on the obligation aspect rather than the action itself.

chief responsibility

Highlights the importance or ranking of the task.

exclusive duty

Underscores the uniqueness of the obligation.

core responsibility

Emphasizes the fundamental and essential nature of the duty.

singular function

Focuses on the functional aspect and its uniqueness.

main objective

Shifts focus to the goal or aim of the task.

prime directive

Implies a high-level, overriding instruction.

FAQs

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

You can use "sole task" to specify the single responsibility someone has. For example, "The employee's "sole task" was to answer phones".

What are some alternatives to "sole task"?

Some alternatives to "sole task" include "primary duty", "only responsibility", or "main objective", depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "sole and only task"?

Yes, saying "sole and only task" is redundant. The word "sole" already implies that it's the only task, so adding "only" is unnecessary.

Can "sole task" be used to describe an organization's purpose?

Yes, "sole task" can describe an organization's primary function. For instance, "The organization's "sole task" is to provide clean water to the community".