Task

Definition

Task refers to a piece of work or duty assigned to someone, often requiring effort to complete. It can also mean a responsibility or a challenging activity.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /tæsk/ or /tæsk/
• Respelling: TASK

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /tɑːsk/
• Respelling: TAHSK

Etymology

The word "task" originates from the Old North French "tasque," meaning "duty, tax, or charge," which itself derives from the Latin "taxare," meaning "to evaluate, handle, or impose a duty." It entered Middle English with the meaning of an assigned duty or responsibility.

Derivatives

• Taskmaster (noun)
• Tasked (verb, past tense)
• Tasking (verb, present participle)
• Multitask (verb)
• Subtask (noun)

Synonyms

• Job
• Assignment
• Chore

Antonyms

• Leisure
• Rest
• Idleness

Usage

The noun "task" is used to denote a specific piece of work, such as "Completing this project is my main task for the day." The verb form is used to assign duties, for example, "She was tasked with organizing the event."

Related Terms

• Duty: A moral or legal obligation.
• Responsibility: A duty or obligation to complete something.
• Work: Effort done to achieve a purpose or result.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A specific piece of work assigned to someone: Refers to a duty or responsibility requiring effort to complete.
  • Example: "He was given a challenging task at work."
• An obligation or duty to perform: Refers to a role or responsibility imposed on someone.
  • Example: "It is our task to ensure the safety of the environment."

Verb

• To assign a piece of work or responsibility: Refers to giving someone a specific duty or assignment.
  • Example: "The team was tasked with completing the project within a week."