a daunting task — an intimidating or overwhelming task
collocationC1IELTS 7+neutraloccasional
A task or responsibility that seems very difficult, challenging, or overwhelming, often making you feel nervous or unsure about how to start or succeed.
Say it like a native
Textbook Confronting the workload was an exceedingly formidable undertaking.
Native It was a really daunting task.
'Daunting task' is the natural collocation; 'formidable undertaking' is overwritten.
Pattern: a daunting task (for someone) / to do something is a daunting task
In use
- Organizing the entire conference by myself was a daunting task, but I managed to pull it off.daily life
- I think moving to a new country can be a daunting task for many people, especially if they don't speak the language or know anyone there.IELTS speaking
Common mistake
✗ It's a very daunted task.
✓ It's a very daunting task.
The task is 'daunting' (it causes the feeling); you feel 'daunted'.
Common collocations
daunting + task— a daunting task, a daunting prospect, daunting challenge, seem daunting
Don't confuse it
Unlike 'a difficult task', which only describes the level of challenge, 'a daunting task' emphasizes the emotional reaction—feeling nervous, overwhelmed, or even afraid to begin.