take on this task

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "take on this task" is an acceptable phrase to use in written English.
You can use it when referring to someone assuming responsibility for a particular job or task. For example, you could say: "I know you must be very busy, but I hope you'll consider taking on this task for me."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

Two recent works take on this task and mostly succeed.

The Economist

The best plan would be for a U.N.-sponsored tribunal to take on this task.

The New York Times

"Alberto Gonzales's resignation will finally allow a new attorney general to take on this task".

The New York Times

Caring for parents already entails so much monitoring — do we have to take on this task too?

The New York Times

I will, as my black parents did before me, take on this task of training my son to both survive and thrive.

The Guardian - Opinion

I heartily endorse the suggestion of one expert who told me that the simplest way to improve American education would be to blow up large schools (note to students: don't take on this task yourselves).

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

I'm very much looking forward to taking on this task".

The Guardian - Sport

Corbyn took on this task and didn't suffer the electoral consequences that many of his internal critics had feared.

The New Yorker

"I am taking on this task at a time in which our company faces unprecedented challenges," the 62-year-old said.

The Guardian - Business

In taking on this task, Dacre has the advantage of his own directorial track record, including The Mountaintop and the Ibsen adaptation Judgement Day, and also of the robust reputation of the place: his two immediate predecessors in Northampton, Laurie Sansom and Rupert Goold, are currently running the National Theatre of Scotland and the Almeida in London respectively.

The Guardian

In 2004, the Institute of Electrical & Electronics Engineers IEEEE) took on this task with a Working Group, dubbed 802.11n.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "take on this task", ensure the context clearly defines the task to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "He will take on this task", specify "He will take on this task of managing the project budget."

Common error

Avoid repeatedly using "take on this task" in close proximity. Vary your language with alternatives like "undertake this task" or "assume this responsibility" to maintain reader engagement and avoid monotony.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take on this task" functions as a verb phrase indicating the act of accepting or assuming responsibility for a specific duty or undertaking. It's a common way to express willingness or obligation to handle a particular job. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "take on this task" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression for assuming responsibility for a specific duty. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability across various contexts. As the examples from Ludwig demonstrate, it is versatile enough to be used in news, scientific articles, and even more informal settings. While the phrase is common, it's beneficial to consider variations like "undertake this task" or "assume this responsibility" to avoid repetition and maintain reader engagement. Remember to always define the task clearly when using this phrase to prevent ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

undertake this task

Replaces "take on" with "undertake", implying a formal commencement of the task.

assume this responsibility

Shifts the focus from the task itself to the responsibility involved.

embark on this endeavor

Replaces "task" with "endeavor", suggesting a more significant or challenging undertaking.

handle this assignment

Uses "handle" and "assignment" suggesting a formal delegation of work.

tackle this job

Employs "tackle" and "job", giving the phrase a slightly more informal tone.

shoulder this burden

Replaces the action with "shoulder", implying carrying a heavy load or difficulty.

commit to this project

Emphasizes dedication by employing "commit to" and replacing "task" with "project".

dedicate oneself to this mission

Puts attention to the act of dedication.

manage this activity

Indicates oversight of "activity".

execute this plan

Highlights successful implementation.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "take on this task" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, you can use alternatives such as "undertake this task" or "assume this responsibility". These options convey a greater sense of commitment and responsibility.

What's a more casual way to say "take on this task"?

If you want a more casual expression, consider using phrases like "tackle this job" or "handle this assignment". These alternatives are less formal and more conversational.

Is it correct to use "take on this task" in academic writing?

Yes, "take on this task" is perfectly acceptable in academic writing. However, depending on the context, more formal alternatives like "embark on this endeavor" might be preferred to enhance the sophistication of your writing.

What's the difference between "take on this task" and "take up this task"?

"Take on this task" implies assuming responsibility for the task, while "take up this task" suggests starting or beginning the task. Although similar, "take on" emphasizes responsibility, whereas "take up" focuses on initiation.