was no small task

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'was no small task' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to describe a difficult situation or task that required a lot of time and effort. For example, "Completing the research project was no small task; it took three months of hard work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

It was no small task.

The Economist

Adding a 3-D production to a busy Friday at the Garden was no small task.

The New York Times

For those who managed to go online to play, finding someone to play with was no small task, either.

The New York Times - Tech

Making that case may now be easier, but Professor Culnan, at Bentley College, said that mounting an effective deterrent to cyberterror was no small task.

The New York Times - Tech

This was no small task, as the Newtown parade is known throughout Connecticut as one of the state's most exuberant spectacles and a mandatory stop for campaigning politicians.

The New York Times

David Schlosser of Schopfer Architects in Syracuse, who oversaw the renovations at Springvale Inn, said transforming the aging 100,000-square-foot institution into a modern residence for 125 well, socially active seniors (just a few residents use wheelchairs and some still drive their cars) was "no small task".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

While cloning animals like sheep and cows is no small task, cloning humans and other primates through nuclear transfer has proved even more difficult.

Vice

That's no small task.

Forbes

This is no small task.

The New York Times

It is no small task.

The New York Times

That is no small task.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "was no small task" to subtly highlight the effort and significance of an accomplishment, especially when the difficulty might not be immediately apparent.

Common error

While appropriate in many settings, avoid using "was no small task" in very casual conversations where simpler language would be more fitting. Phrases like "it wasn't easy" might be better.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "was no small task" functions as an evaluative expression, emphasizing that a particular activity or endeavor required significant effort, resources, or skill. It suggests that the undertaking was more challenging than it might initially appear. Ludwig confirms that this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

6.67%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

3.33%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "was no small task" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to emphasize the difficulty or significance of a particular endeavor. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for written English and can be used across various contexts, particularly in news and media and scientific domains. While alternatives like ""was a significant undertaking"" or ""was a considerable challenge"" exist, "was no small task" provides a clear and professional way to highlight the effort involved. Remember to consider the formality of the context and choose simpler language when appropriate. Ludwig's examples reveal how this phrase adds weight and appreciation to accomplishments that might otherwise be underestimated.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

was a significant undertaking

Replaces "task" with "undertaking", emphasizing the scale and commitment involved.

was a considerable challenge

Substitutes "task" with "challenge", highlighting the difficulty faced.

was a major operation

Replaces "task" with "operation", suggesting a complex and coordinated effort.

was no easy feat

Emphasizes the accomplishment achieved, swapping "task" for "feat".

was a Herculean effort

Uses a metaphorical comparison to a labor of Hercules, underscoring the immense effort required.

was a demanding endeavor

Replaces "task" with "endeavor", focusing on the effort and ambition involved.

represented a formidable undertaking

Highlights the challenging nature of the activity.

was an uphill battle

Implies a constant struggle and resistance, a more metaphorical take on difficulty.

was a labor of love

Suggests a difficult task made easier by passion and dedication.

was quite an assignment

Replaces "task" with "assignment", often used in professional contexts.

FAQs

How can I use "was no small task" in a sentence?

You can use "was no small task" to emphasize the difficulty or magnitude of something. For instance, "Organizing the conference "was no small task", requiring months of planning and coordination".

What are some alternatives to saying "was no small task"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "was a significant undertaking", "was a considerable challenge", or "was no easy feat".

Is it appropriate to use "was no small task" in formal writing?

Yes, "was no small task" is suitable for formal writing. It conveys a clear and professional tone while highlighting the substantial effort involved. Ludwig AI confirms this.

What's the difference between "was no small task" and "was an impossible task"?

"Was no small task" indicates that something was difficult but achievable. In contrast, "was an impossible task" implies that something could not be accomplished, regardless of effort. The former suggests effort and potential success, while the latter suggests futility.