take an assignment

USAGE SUMMARY

"take an assignment" is correct and usable in written English.
You would use this phrase when someone is being asked to accept an assignment or task. For example, "The professor asked us to take an assignment to write a research paper by the end of the month."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

Upon turning sixty-five, when asked to take an assignment, Friedlander answered, "I retired from everything except work".

The New Yorker

That meant that Jarrett Balfour, an employee of a civilian military contractor, had no choice but to take an assignment in Iraq.

The Washington Post

I've learned that you have to be willing to take an assignment that is less glamorous than you would like, and to make something out of it.

The New York Times

"I have to confess," he said, "that now and then I would take an assignment because I wanted not to be eligible for something that I didn't want to write".

The New York Times

For clients who become dual nationals, he said, "there are distinct benefits to it, especially now that the E.U. has grown in size and scope, especially if you need to take an assignment there".

The New York Times

"It is clear to us, and we hope it is clear to the government, that Giuliani would not take an assignment with a company that he felt was acting in an improper way".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

In the summer of 1960, Norman Mailer took an assignment to cover the Democratic Convention in Los Angeles.

The New Yorker

By David Remnick In the summer of 1960, Norman Mailer took an assignment to cover the Democratic Convention in Los Angeles.

The New Yorker

After a couple of jobs in retail, she took an assignment as a customer service representative at a furniture company.

The New York Times

He rarely takes an assignment that does not include a dinner of 5 courses, 2 wines, & free Upmanns No. 30.

The New Yorker

Mr. Penn observed the rebelliousness of the '60s with a curious eye, even taking an assignment from Look magazine to photograph the "summer of love" scene in San Francisco.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Specify the expected deliverables, timelines, and resources available when asking someone to "take an assignment".

Common error

Avoid ambiguity by clearly defining the boundaries of the "assignment". Ensure that the responsibilities associated with "taking an assignment" do not overlap with existing roles or tasks.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take an assignment" functions as a verb phrase indicating the acceptance or undertaking of a specific task or duty. As noted by Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. Examples in Ludwig show its use across various contexts, from professional responsibilities to creative projects.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Wiki

12%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Science

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "take an assignment" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that signifies the acceptance or undertaking of a specific task. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and applicable across various contexts. While it maintains a neutral to professional register, it is commonly found in news and media, as well as academic and professional settings. When using "take an assignment", ensure clear communication regarding the scope and objectives of the task. Remember to check the alternative options like "accept a task" to maximize variety in your writings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

accept a task

This alternative uses simpler vocabulary, replacing "assignment" with "task".

undertake a project

This suggests a more involved and potentially longer-term commitment than simply "taking" an assignment.

assume responsibility for

This emphasizes the accountability associated with accepting the assignment.

tackle a job

This alternative implies a willingness to address the assignment with energy and effort.

handle a case

This alternative is suitable when the "assignment" is related to legal or investigative work.

manage a portfolio

This implies managing multiple tasks or responsibilities within a specific domain.

execute an order

This is more formal and suggests a direct command or instruction being followed.

embrace an opportunity

This highlights the positive aspect of accepting the assignment, framing it as a chance for growth or advancement.

shoulder a burden

This emphasizes the challenging or difficult nature of the assignment.

embark on a mission

This suggests a focused and purposeful undertaking, often with a specific goal in mind.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "take an assignment" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "undertake a project" or "assume responsibility for". These options convey a greater sense of commitment and accountability.

Is it appropriate to use "take an assignment" in professional communication?

Yes, "take an assignment" is suitable for professional communication. However, ensure the context aligns with the phrase's common usage, which implies accepting a defined task or project. For more formal settings, consider alternatives like "execute an order".

What are some less formal ways to say "take an assignment"?

In informal settings, you could use alternatives such as "tackle a job" or "handle a case". These options are more conversational and less rigid than "take an assignment".

How does "take on an assignment" differ from "take an assignment"?

"Take on an assignment" and "take an assignment" are largely interchangeable. However, "take on" might suggest a greater willingness or enthusiasm to accept the task, whereas "take" is more neutral.