when undertaking a task

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "when undertaking a task" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to the process or action of beginning and completing a specific job or responsibility. Example: "When undertaking a task, it is important to plan your steps carefully to ensure success."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

When he undertakes a task he doesn't quit until it's done.

Huffington Post

Work crews are to notify a dispatcher when they prepare to undertake a task on the rail bed.

The Washington Post

Few people have ever willingly undertaken a task more punishing than the one Álvaro Uribe is to assume today when he is sworn in as president of Colombia.

The New York Times

Undertaking a task in such a way as to make undesirable consequence to yourself likely, when avoiding those consequences would have been easily achieved by a simple change in direction or approach". No direct link, it has "something" in it.

BBC

A mandatory task when undertaking a signal-processing-intensive project is deciding what kind of programming methodology to use.

Embedded Media Processing

This one food preparation task traditionally outsourced to men is, incidentally, hilarious when undertaken by women.

Huffington Post

"Roberto undertook a great task but he did not do it alone," Silvia stressed.

The Guardian

Brabin undertook a difficult task, inasmuch as there is little or no drama in the story.

The New York Times

Trimmer undertook a challenging task in publishing her periodical.

Wikipedia

This paper reports the design and testing of a method to achieve the large scale sampling associated with the establishment of such a baseline, carried out within the remit of the EcoFINDERS project, and outlines points to consider when such a task is undertaken.

Applied Soil Ecology

The seized material was so complex and voluminous that it took Scotland Yard several months to search when it undertook the task after the Guardian's revelations.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Before "when undertaking a task", clearly define the task's scope and objectives to ensure focused effort and efficient execution. This helps in setting realistic expectations and measuring progress effectively.

Common error

Avoid blindly "when undertaking a task" without first assessing available resources, potential obstacles, and necessary skills. Failure to do so can lead to wasted time, increased frustration, and a higher likelihood of failure.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "when undertaking a task" functions as an adverbial clause of time, modifying the main clause by specifying when an action or condition occurs. Ludwig indicates that this structure is grammatically sound and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "when undertaking a task" serves as an adverbial clause of time, providing context to a statement by specifying when the action happens. While not overly formal, it carries a slightly more professional tone compared to simpler alternatives like "when starting a task". Ludwig confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct. Although examples are limited, it finds applications across multiple domains, as confirmed by Ludwig.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

when starting a task

Similar to 'beginning', but even more straightforward.

when beginning a task

Uses simpler vocabulary for "undertaking", making it more accessible.

when commencing a task

Replaces "undertaking" with "commencing", implying a more formal start.

when taking on a task

Highlights the acceptance of the responsibility associated with the task.

when performing a task

Focuses on the action of 'performing' rather than initiating the task.

upon initiating a task

Emphasizes the action of 'initiating' the task.

while carrying out a task

Emphasizes the process of 'carrying out' the task from start to finish.

when addressing a task

Focuses on dealing with or handling the task at hand.

as you tackle a task

Suggests a more proactive and problem-solving approach.

as you embark on a task

More figurative language, suggesting a journey or new adventure.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "when undertaking a task"?

Alternatives include "when starting a task", "when beginning a task", or "when performing a task", each offering a slightly different emphasis on the task's initiation or execution.

Is "undertaking" too formal for everyday conversation?

While "undertaking" isn't incorrect, it leans towards formal. In casual settings, "starting a task" or "beginning a task" are generally more appropriate and natural.

What does it mean to "undertake" something?

To "undertake" means to commit oneself to and begin a task or enterprise. It implies a deliberate and often significant effort or responsibility.

Is there a difference between "undertaking a task" and "completing a task"?

"Undertaking a task" refers to the beginning or process of starting a task, while "completing a task" signifies the successful finishing of that task. They represent different stages of the same activity.