Task vs Activity
What’s the difference between them?
Task
Meaning:
Task: an assignment, usually given to one person or a group, that requires effort and skill and is performed in exchange for payment or other reward.
Examples:
1. I have a lot of tasks to complete today.
2. She assigned the task of washing the dishes to her brother.
3. I'm afraid I'm not up to the task of completing this project.
Activity
Meaning:
An activity is an action or task that is done for pleasure, business, or entertainment.
Examples:
1. We plan to have lots of fun activities at our next family reunion.
2. He enjoys participating in outdoor activities such as biking and hiking.
3. The students had to complete several educational activities during their science class.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Task
1. Assignment
2. Job
3. Chore
4. Undertaking
5. Commission
1. Reward
2. Leisure
3. Pastime
Activity
1. Endeavor
2. Task
3. Pursuit
4. Undertaking
5. Enterprise
1. Inactivity
2. Laziness
3. Passivity
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Task", "Activity".
1. When deciding between using the word 'task' and 'activity', think about whether the action requires effort and skill to complete. If it does, use the word 'task'.
2. If the action is done for pleasure or entertainment, use 'activity'.
3. Remember that 'task' is often used to refer to a job or assignment that requires effort and skill.
4. An activity is usually done for pleasure or entertainment.
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
When should the word 'task' be used?
Task should be used when referring to a specific assignment or job given to an individual or a group, that requires effort and skill in exchange for payment or other reward.
When is the appropriate context for using the word 'activity'?
Activity should be used when referring to an action or task that is done for pleasure, business, or entertainment.
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
No, the two words do not share the same pronunciation. Task /task/, while activity is pronounced /ekti'viti/.
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
One common mistake people make when using these words is using them interchangeably. While both words can refer to a task involving effort or skill, activity has a broader meaning and usually refers to a task that has recreational, business, or entertainment purposes. Another mistake people make is using the wrong pronunciation for each word.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. I have a busy day ahead; theres an important _____ I need to finish by the evening.
2. Physical exercise is a great _____ to boost your energy levels.
3. The students were given a challenging _____ to test their problem-solving skills.
4. The teacher organized a fun _____ for the students to play during the break.
5. Could you please handle this _____ while I attend the meeting?
6. Swimming is my favorite _____ during the summer months.
1. Task
Explanation: In this context, the word task is more appropriate because it refers to a specific duty or piece of work that needs to be completed.
2. Activity
Explanation: Physical exercise is often considered an activity, which refers to a specific action or organized endeavor, especially one that involves movement or exertion.
3. Task
Explanation: Here, task refers to a specific assignment or duty that the students need to complete.
4. Activity
Explanation: The word activity suits this context because it refers to a playful or entertaining event or organized endeavor, especially one designed for a group.
5. Task
Explanation: In this context, the word task is used to describe a specific duty or job that one person is asking another person to handle.
6. Activity
Explanation: Swimming is considered an activity as it is a specific action or organized endeavor that people engage in for recreation or exercise.
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Download the PDF with a list of commonly confused words made as flashcards for comfortable learning.
List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.