task force

American  

noun

1. Navy, Military. a temporary grouping of units under one commander, formed for the purpose of carrying out a specific operation or mission.

2. a group or committee, usually of experts or specialists, formed for analyzing, investigating, or solving a specific problem.

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task force British  

noun

1. a temporary grouping of military units formed to undertake a specific mission

2. any semipermanent organization set up to carry out a continuing task

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Etymology

Origin of task force

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

The claim that the task force had met “once a month,” when in fact it had scarcely met, led me to contact Harris and ask where he’d gotten that misinformation.

From Salon • Apr. 20, 2026

In 2022, with new leadership, Suffolk County Police created a task force to investigate the murders - bringing in federal and local law enforcement - which led them to Heuermann in six weeks.

From BBC • Apr. 8, 2026

It said a task force involving the police, tourist board and aviation officials would "strengthen oversight and conduct regular audits", as well as to ensure guides and trekking agencies were licensed.

From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026

Patient advocates have lobbied the county Board of Supervisors to establish a similar task force, thus far unsuccessfully.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 14, 2026

The investigation revealed that the task force seized large amounts of money, but also small amounts, and then dispensed it freely, unconstrained by reporting requirements or the task force’s mission.

From "The New Jim Crow" by Michelle Alexander

Related Words

• crew