takes an assignment

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "takes an assignment" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to someone accepting or agreeing to complete a specific task or project. Example: "She takes an assignment from her professor every semester to enhance her research skills."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

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

The New Yorker

9 50 A.M. (HBO Signature) THE AMERICAN (2010) Before "The Descendants" and "The Ides of March" brought him Oscar nominations in this latest awards season, George Clooney, above, played a gun-toting expatriate who arrives in a small Italian town after a mishap on his previous job and takes an assignment to build a custom weapon for a sexy assassin (Thekla Reuten).

The New York Times

10 30 P.M. (HBO2) THE AMERICAN (2010) A gun-toting expatriate (George Clooney) arrives in a small Italian town after a mishap on his previous job and takes an assignment to build a custom weapon for a sexy assassin (Thekla Reuten).

The New York Times

12 45 A.M. (HBO Signature) THE AMERICAN (2010) A gun-toting expatriate (George Clooney, below) arrives in a small Italian town after a mishap on his previous job and takes an assignment to build a custom weapon for a sexy assassin (Thekla Reuten) in this film directed by Anton Corbijn from a script by Rowan Joffe.

The New York Times

2 15 P.M. (MoreMax) THE AMERICAN (2010) A gun-toting expatriate (George Clooney, below) arrives in a small Italian town and takes an assignment to build a custom weapon for a sexy assassin (Thekla Reuten) in this film directed by Anton Corbijn from a script by Rowan Joffe.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 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

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

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

A Nashville resident, Patchett is setting her next book in the Amazon and took an assignment from Gourmet (R.I.P). to prepare for it.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "takes an assignment", ensure the context clearly defines the nature and scope of the assignment. Consider using stronger verbs if you want to emphasize the level of effort or commitment involved, such as "undertakes" or "spearheads".

Common error

Avoid using passive constructions that obscure who is "taking" the assignment. For instance, instead of "An assignment was taken by him", use "He takes an assignment" for clarity and directness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "takes an assignment" primarily functions as a verb phrase, where "takes" is the verb indicating the action of accepting, and "an assignment" is the direct object. It signifies the action of accepting responsibility for a task. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

18%

Science

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "takes an assignment" is grammatically correct and understandable, although relatively rare in occurrence based on Ludwig's analysis. The phrase means to accept responsibility for performing a particular task, project or duty. While versatile, consider stronger verbs for emphasis or alternatives based on context. Ludwig AI suggests its usage is prevalent in news and media, suitable for a wide range of registers, and avoiding passive constructions enhances clarity. Be mindful of these nuances to use the phrase effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

accepts a task

This alternative is more concise and emphasizes the act of accepting a specific task.

undertakes a project

This alternative suggests a larger, more involved commitment than a simple assignment.

assumes responsibility for a task

This alternative emphasizes the responsibility and accountability involved.

agrees to perform a duty

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the obligation to fulfill a duty.

takes on a commitment

This alternative highlights the voluntary nature of accepting the assignment.

signs up for a job

This alternative is more informal and implies a short-term engagement.

takes charge of a mission

This alternative suggests a more proactive and leadership-oriented role.

embraces a challenge

This alternative focuses on the positive aspect of taking on a difficult assignment.

shoulders a responsibility

This alternative emphasizes the burden and weight of the assignment.

contracts to do a piece of work

This alternative is formal and suggests a legally binding agreement.

FAQs

What does "takes an assignment" mean?

The phrase "takes an assignment" means to accept or agree to perform a specific task or project that has been given to someone. It implies a willingness to undertake the responsibility associated with the task.

What are some alternatives to "takes an assignment"?

You can use alternatives such as "accepts a task", "undertakes a project", or "assumes responsibility" depending on the context.

How do I use "takes an assignment" in a sentence?

Here's an example: "The journalist often "takes an assignment" that requires extensive travel and research."

Is "takes an assignment" formal or informal?

The phrase "takes an assignment" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in more formal settings, you might consider alternatives like "undertakes a project".