What is task? Pronunciation and usage in English

task means . Learn how to pronounce and use task through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of task

tasknoun

/tɑːsk/
Definition & pronunciation of task

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "task" in English. Here's a breakdown:

The most common and accepted pronunciation is:

  • /tæsk/ (rhymes with "mask")

Here's a more detailed explanation:

  • "t": Pronounced as a regular /t/ sound – like in "top" or "cat."
  • "a": Pronounced like the "a" in "father" or "car." Short and crisp.
  • "sk": This is the tricky part! It's a blend of a “s” and a “k” sound. It’s almost like saying "sk" quickly, without fully separating the sounds. Think of it as a single, slightly explosive sound.

Here's a helpful way to break it down to practice:

  1. Say "t" - /t/
  2. Say "a" - /æ/ (as in father)
  3. Say "sk" - /sk/ (blend the sounds together)

Resources for Hearing it:

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation?
  • Give you some example sentences with "task" in them?

Usage and examples with the word task in English

Let's break down how to use the word "task" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with many different applications!

1. Basic Definition: A Piece of Work

At its core, a "task" is simply a piece of work that needs to be done. It's something you have to accomplish.

  • Example: "My task for today is to finish the report."
  • Example: “I have several tasks to complete before the deadline.”

2. Common Uses & Variations

Here’s a breakdown of how you’ll often encounter “task” and related phrases:

  • Individual Task: This refers to a single action or activity.

    • Example: "Cleaning the kitchen is a small task."
    • Example: “Completing the assignment is your main task.”
  • List of Tasks (Tasks List): A collection of individual tasks.

    • Example: “I made a task list to stay organized.”
    • Example: “The project manager created a tasks list for the team.”
  • Work Task: A duty or responsibility within a job or role.

    • Example: "Part of my work task is answering customer emails."
    • Example: “He’s responsible for data entry as one of his work tasks.”
  • Scheduled Task (Automatic Task): A task that runs automatically on a set schedule. (Common in computers and software)

    • Example: “The computer will automatically back up your files as a scheduled task.”
    • Example: "The software performs a regular maintenance task."
  • Task Force: A group of people assigned to a specific task or problem.

    • Example: "The government assembled a task force to investigate the crisis.”
  • Task-Oriented: Describing someone or something focused on accomplishing tasks.

    • Example: “He’s a very task-oriented employee – he gets things done.”
  • Tasked with: Meaning to be given or assigned a task.

    • Example: "She was tasked with leading the new marketing campaign."

3. Phrases Using "Task"

  • Complete a task: To finish something.
  • Assign a task: To give someone a task to do.
  • Prioritize tasks: To decide which tasks are most important.
  • Delegate tasks: To give a task to someone else.
  • Handle a task: To deal with, manage, or complete a task.
  • Difficult task: A challenging task.
  • Simple task: A easy task.

4. Tone & Formality

"Task" is generally a fairly neutral word. You can use it in both formal and informal contexts.

Example of Formal Use: "The project team must diligently execute each assigned task to ensure timely completion."

Example of Informal Use: "I've got a ton of tasks to do tonight!"


To help me give you even more tailored information, could you tell me:

  • What context are you using "task" in? (e.g., work, school, personal life, computer use)?
  • Are there any specific situations you'd like to know how to use "task" in? (e.g., "How do I say I have a lot of tasks to do?" or "How do I assign a task to someone?")

Idioms of the word task

take somebody to task (for/over something)
to criticize somebody strongly for something they have done
  • The local newspaper has been taking the city council to task over its transport policy.

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