taking on an assignment

USAGE SUMMARY

"taking on an assignment" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when describing the process of accepting the responsibility to complete a project or task. For example, "After understanding the scope of the project, Barb decided to take on the assignment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Caught, DiCaprio is given a choice of taking on an assignment for Ken Watanabe that if successful would make it possible for him to get out of the U.S. criminal database and return to James and Phillipa.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

The famous picture, he said, had been taken on an assignment for the United States Information Agency.

The New Yorker

Getting over a breakup, she takes on an assignment to do field research for the Forest Service on stream life in a burn zone.

The New York Times

As a result, the theory goes, those who significantly interrupt their work might as well abandon it, especially if they take on an assignment as daunting as heading a major federal agency.

The New York Times - Science

"Taking on a line assignment from some part of government that is already under way, I never thought was a good use of my time," Mr. Mondale said.

The New York Times

But in 2000, he took on an assignment that carried him beyond his usual turf.

The New York Times

They were talented, resourceful people who took on an assignment that they knew was as dangerous as it was glamorous.

The New Yorker

In 2011 he took on an assignment for his then-employer — the Burlingame, California-based Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA, which is not your typical humane outfit in that it is wildlife-savvy.

The Guardian

Recently, a client asked me to take on an assignment in a hot field where life science meets another technology.

Science Magazine

Whether shooting and producing Emmy Roundtable interviews, working as a second camera on restaurant reviews, editing video for the Festival of Books or running the tri-caster on the newsroom stage, Chun takes on any assignment with a great attitude and always delivers compelling results.

Los Angeles Times

This is my final column before I take on a new assignment at The New York Times.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Before "taking on an assignment", evaluate your current workload and capacity to avoid overcommitment and ensure timely completion.

Common error

Avoid "taking on an assignment" without first evaluating the necessary resources, skills, and time commitment required for successful completion. This prevents potential delays and ensures quality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "taking on an assignment" functions as a verb phrase, describing the action of accepting and beginning a task or responsibility. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and usability in written English. It implies a proactive stance toward the task.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "taking on an assignment" is a grammatically correct and widely used expression signifying the acceptance of a task or responsibility. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and its prevalence across diverse sources like The New York Times, The Guardian, and academic publications indicates its broad applicability. While alternatives like "accepting a task" or "undertaking a project" exist, "taking on an assignment" conveys a sense of willingness and commitment. Remember to assess resource availability before committing to avoid overextension. The frequency and range of authoritative sources employing this phrase highlight its reliability for both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Accepting a task

Focuses on the act of agreeing to do something.

Undertaking a project

Emphasizes the start of a significant endeavor.

Commencing work on a task

Highlights the beginning of work.

Tackling a job

Implies a proactive approach to dealing with a task, often a challenging one.

Getting involved in a task

Suggests active participation and engagement with the assignment.

Assuming responsibility for a project

Stresses the obligation to manage and complete the task.

Acquiring a responsibility

Highlights the process of gaining or receiving the assignment.

Embarking on a mission

Adds a sense of purpose and importance to the undertaking.

Assuming a duty

Focuses on the formal responsibility associated with the assignment.

Shouldering an obligation

Emphasizes the burden or responsibility that comes with accepting the assignment.

FAQs

What does "taking on an assignment" mean?

It means accepting responsibility for completing a specific task or project. It implies you are willing to dedicate your time and effort to fulfill the requirements of the assignment.

What can I say instead of "taking on an assignment"?

You can use alternatives like "accepting a task", "undertaking a project", or "commencing work on a task" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "take on an assignment" or "accept an assignment"?

"Take on an assignment" and "accept an assignment" are both correct and often interchangeable. However, "take on" can sometimes imply a greater sense of enthusiasm or willingness to handle the task, while "accept" is more neutral. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

How do I politely decline "taking on an assignment"?

Explain that you are currently at full capacity and don't want to compromise existing commitments. Suggesting an alternative colleague who might be available is also a considerate approach.