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/əˈsaɪnmənt/.

Other forms: assignments

Whether you’re an international spy with a new mission or a high school student with math homework — when you get an assignment , you’d better do it! An assignment is a task that someone in authority has asked you to do.

The word assignment is just the noun form of the common verb assign , which you use when you want to give someone a duty or a job. When you assign something, that something is called an assignment . The word can also refer to the act of distributing something. If you are distributing new office furniture at work, you might say, “ Assignment of the new chairs will begin tomorrow.”

  • noun an undertaking that you have been assigned to do (as by an instructor) see more see less types: show 6 types... hide 6 types... school assignment , schoolwork a school task performed by a student to satisfy the teacher writing assignment , written assignment an assignment to write something classroom project a school task requiring considerable effort classwork the part of a student's work that is done in the classroom homework , prep , preparation preparatory school work done outside school (especially at home) lesson a task assigned for individual study type of: labor , project , task , undertaking any piece of work that is undertaken or attempted
  • noun a duty that you are assigned to perform (especially in the armed forces) “a hazardous assignment ” synonyms: duty assignment see more see less types: show 10 types... hide 10 types... guard , guard duty , sentry duty , sentry go the duty of serving as a sentry fatigue , fatigue duty labor of a nonmilitary kind done by soldiers (cleaning or digging or draining or so on) charge , commission , mission a special assignment that is given to a person or group reassignment assignment to a different duty sea-duty , service abroad , shipboard duty naval service aboard a ship at sea shore duty naval service at land bases fool's errand a fruitless mission mission impossible an extremely dangerous or difficult mission martyr operation , sacrifice operation , suicide mission killing or injuring others while annihilating yourself; usually accomplished with a bomb secondment the detachment of a person from their regular organization for temporary assignment elsewhere type of: duty work that you are obliged to perform for moral or legal reasons
  • noun the act of putting a person into a non-elective position synonyms: appointment , designation , naming see more see less types: show 6 types... hide 6 types... nomination the act of officially naming a candidate co-optation , co-option the act of appointing summarily (with or without the appointee's consent) delegacy the appointment of a delegate ordinance , ordination the act of ordaining; the act of conferring (or receiving) holy orders recognition designation by the chair granting a person the right to speak in a deliberative body laying on of hands laying hands on a person's head to invoke spiritual blessing in Christian ordination type of: conclusion , decision , determination the act of making up your mind about something
  • noun the act of distributing something to designated places or persons “the first task is the assignment of an address to each datum” synonyms: assigning see more see less types: allocation , storage allocation (computer science) the assignment of particular areas of a magnetic disk to particular data or instructions type of: distribution the act of distributing or spreading or apportioning
  • noun (law) a transfer of property by deed of conveyance synonyms: grant see more see less types: apanage , appanage a grant (by a sovereign or a legislative body) of resources to maintain a dependent member of a ruling family land grant a grant of public land (as to a railway or college) type of: transferred possession , transferred property a possession whose ownership changes or lapses
  • noun the instrument by which a claim or right or interest or property is transferred from one person to another see more see less type of: instrument , legal document , legal instrument , official document (law) a document that states some contractual relationship or grants some right

Vocabulary lists containing assignment

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The Dawes Act, or General Allotment Act of 1887, was a law that allowed the U.S. government to take Native American tribal lands and divide them into 40 acre lots for individual Native Americans. The goal was to break up communal tribal lands and speed the assimilation of Native Americans into American society. The Dawes Act caused great suffering with much of the land winding up in the hands of white settlers.

Learn these words from the autobiography by David Lubar (Inside: Level B, Unit 4). Here are our links to the selections of "Every Body Is a Winner": The Human Machine; My Fabulous Footprint , The Beat Goes On; All Pumped Up , Two Left Feet, Two Left Hands , How Coach Told Me; Bionics Here are our links to the units of Level B: Unit 1 , Unit 2 , Unit 3 , Unit 4 , Unit 5 , Unit 6 , Unit 7 , Unit 8 Here are our links to the Inside books: Level A , Level B , Level C Here is our link to a list of academic vocabulary for Inside: Academic Vocabulary

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WordReference Random House Learner's Dictionary of American English © 2024
as•sign•ment      n. [ ]
WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2024
as•sign•ment   mənt),USA pronunciation n.  See assign, -ment 1350–1400 obligation, job. See   
/əˈsaɪnmənt/ n ' also found in these entries (note: many are not synonyms or translations): - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - , , , , , , , , a [position, work] assignment, is on [a special, an undercover] assignment, was [given, sent on] a special assignment,

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Understood the Assignment

“Understood the assignment" is a phrase that is used to acknowledge someone who has done an exceptional job or exceeded expectations. 

What does "Understood the Assignment" mean on social media?

The phrase has become popular on social media and in popular culture and is often used to praise someone who is giving it their all whether that’s with their achievements, what they’re wearing or what they’re doing more generally. 

For example, if someone shows up to the party in a great outfit in this context, saying they “Understood the assignment” means that the person is at the top of their game and pulled up in a great look. 

The phrase can also be used sarcastically to criticize someone who has failed to meet expectations or has done a poor job. Overall, "Understood the assignment" is a phrase that is used to acknowledge someone's efforts or accomplishments and has become a popular way to express praise or criticism in slang.

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as·sign·ment

As•sign•ment.

An assignment is a task that someone is given to do, usually as part of their job.

An assignment is also a piece of academic work given to students.

In American English, an assignment is also a piece of work given to students to do at home.

Work given to schoolchildren to do at home is also called homework .

Be Careful! Homework is an uncountable noun. You do not talk about 'homeworks' or 'a homework'. Note that you do not say ' I have made my homework '. You say 'I have done my homework'.

- a duty that you are assigned to perform (especially in the armed forces); "hazardous duty" - work that you are obliged to perform for moral or legal reasons; "the duties of the job" , , , - the duty of serving as a sentry; "he was on guard that night" , - labor of a nonmilitary kind done by soldiers (cleaning or digging or draining or so on); "the soldiers were put on fatigue to teach them a lesson"; "they were assigned to kitchen fatigues" , , - a special assignment that is given to a person or group; "a confidential mission to London"; "his charge was deliver a message" - assignment to a different duty , , - naval service aboard a ship at sea - naval service at land bases
- the instrument by which a claim or right or interest or property is transferred from one person to another , , , - (law) a document that states some contractual relationship or grants some right , - the collection of rules imposed by authority; "civilization presupposes respect for the law"; "the great problem for jurisprudence to allow freedom while enforcing order"
- the act of distributing something to designated places or persons; "the first task is the assignment of an address to each datum" , - (computer science) the assignment of particular areas of a magnetic disk to particular data or instructions - the act of distributing or spreading or apportioning
- (law) a transfer of property by deed of conveyance , - the collection of rules imposed by authority; "civilization presupposes respect for the law"; "the great problem for jurisprudence to allow freedom while enforcing order" , - a possession whose ownership changes or lapses , - a grant (by a sovereign or a legislative body) of resources to maintain a dependent member of a ruling family; "bishoprics were received as appanages for the younger sons of great families" - a grant of public land (as to a railway or college)
- an undertaking that you have been assigned to do (as by an instructor) , - a school task performed by a student to satisfy the teacher , , , - any piece of work that is undertaken or attempted; "he prepared for great undertakings" , - an assignment to write something
- the act of putting a person into a non-elective position; "the appointment had to be approved by the whole committee" , , , , - the act of making up your mind about something; "the burden of decision was his"; "he drew his conclusions quickly" - the act of officially naming a candidate; "the Republican nomination for Governor" , - the act of appointing summarily (with or without the appointee's consent) - the appointment of a delegate , - the act of ordaining; the act of conferring (or receiving) holy orders; "the rabbi's family was present for his ordination" - designation by the chair granting a person the right to speak in a deliberative body; "he was unable to make his motion because he couldn't get recognition by the chairman"
  • admeasurement
  • all nighter
  • annual training
  • anthropopathism
  • anthropopathy
  • anthropophuism
  • anthropopsychism
  • appointment
  • apportionment
  • apportionment (air)
  • assignation
  • Assignment of dower
  • assibilation
  • Assideanism
  • assiduously
  • assiduousness
  • assignability
  • assigned risk
  • assimilability
  • assimilable
  • assimilating
  • assimilation
  • assimilationism
  • assimilationist
  • assimilative
  • assimilator
  • assimilatory
  • Assimulation
  • Assiniboine
  • Assiniboine Mount
  • Assiniboine River
  • assistance dog
  • assistance mechanism
  • assigned to you
  • assigning to
  • Assignment (computer science)
  • Assignment (education)
  • Assignment (law)
  • Assignment Action Number
  • Assignment and Analysis of Broadband Spectra
  • Assignment and Justification Questionnaire
  • Assignment and Lease
  • Assignment and Licensing System
  • Assignment and Transmittal Document
  • Assignment Area
  • Assignment Availability Code
  • Assignment by Choice
  • Assignment Capsule
  • Assignment Capsules
  • Assignment Clause, Life Insurance
  • Assignment Completed
  • Assignment Consideration
  • Assignment Control Authority
  • Assignment Control Number
  • Assignment Coordination Group
  • Assignment Data Card
  • Assignment Date
  • Assignment Eligibility & Availability
  • Assignment for benefit of creditors
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Cambridge Dictionary

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Meaning of assignment in English

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  • It was a plum assignment - more of a vacation really.
  • He took this award-winning photograph while on assignment in the Middle East .
  • His two-year assignment to the Mexico office starts in September .
  • She first visited Norway on assignment for the winter Olympics ten years ago.
  • He fell in love with the area after being there on assignment for National Geographic in the 1950s.
  • act as something
  • all work and no play (makes Jack a dull boy) idiom
  • be at work idiom
  • be in work idiom
  • housekeeping
  • in the line of duty idiom
  • join duty idiom
  • undertaking

You can also find related words, phrases, and synonyms in the topics:

assignment | Intermediate English

Assignment | business english, examples of assignment, collocations with assignment.

These are words often used in combination with assignment .

Click on a collocation to see more examples of it.

Translations of assignment

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dry as a bone

extremely dry

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  • on assignment
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Synonyms of assignment

  • as in lesson
  • as in appointment
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Thesaurus Definition of assignment

Synonyms & Similar Words

  • responsibility
  • undertaking
  • requirement
  • designation
  • appointment
  • authorization
  • installment
  • installation
  • destination
  • emplacement
  • investiture
  • singling (out)

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

  • dethronement

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun assignment contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of assignment are chore , duty , job , stint , and task . While all these words mean "a piece of work to be done," assignment implies a definite limited task assigned by one in authority.

When is it sensible to use chore instead of assignment ?

While the synonyms chore and assignment are close in meaning, chore implies a minor routine activity necessary for maintaining a household or farm.

When is duty a more appropriate choice than assignment ?

Although the words duty and assignment have much in common, duty implies an obligation to perform or responsibility for performance.

When might job be a better fit than assignment ?

The synonyms job and assignment are sometimes interchangeable, but job applies to a piece of work voluntarily performed; it may sometimes suggest difficulty or importance.

When could stint be used to replace assignment ?

In some situations, the words stint and assignment are roughly equivalent. However, stint implies a carefully allotted or measured quantity of assigned work or service.

When can task be used instead of assignment ?

The meanings of task and assignment largely overlap; however, task implies work imposed by a person in authority or an employer or by circumstance.

Thesaurus Entries Near assignment

assignments

Cite this Entry

“Assignment.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/assignment. Accessed 22 Jun. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on assignment

Nglish: Translation of assignment for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of assignment for Arabic Speakers

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The Writing Center • University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Understanding Assignments

What this handout is about.

The first step in any successful college writing venture is reading the assignment. While this sounds like a simple task, it can be a tough one. This handout will help you unravel your assignment and begin to craft an effective response. Much of the following advice will involve translating typical assignment terms and practices into meaningful clues to the type of writing your instructor expects. See our short video for more tips.

Basic beginnings

Regardless of the assignment, department, or instructor, adopting these two habits will serve you well :

  • Read the assignment carefully as soon as you receive it. Do not put this task off—reading the assignment at the beginning will save you time, stress, and problems later. An assignment can look pretty straightforward at first, particularly if the instructor has provided lots of information. That does not mean it will not take time and effort to complete; you may even have to learn a new skill to complete the assignment.
  • Ask the instructor about anything you do not understand. Do not hesitate to approach your instructor. Instructors would prefer to set you straight before you hand the paper in. That’s also when you will find their feedback most useful.

Assignment formats

Many assignments follow a basic format. Assignments often begin with an overview of the topic, include a central verb or verbs that describe the task, and offer some additional suggestions, questions, or prompts to get you started.

An Overview of Some Kind

The instructor might set the stage with some general discussion of the subject of the assignment, introduce the topic, or remind you of something pertinent that you have discussed in class. For example:

“Throughout history, gerbils have played a key role in politics,” or “In the last few weeks of class, we have focused on the evening wear of the housefly …”

The Task of the Assignment

Pay attention; this part tells you what to do when you write the paper. Look for the key verb or verbs in the sentence. Words like analyze, summarize, or compare direct you to think about your topic in a certain way. Also pay attention to words such as how, what, when, where, and why; these words guide your attention toward specific information. (See the section in this handout titled “Key Terms” for more information.)

“Analyze the effect that gerbils had on the Russian Revolution”, or “Suggest an interpretation of housefly undergarments that differs from Darwin’s.”

Additional Material to Think about

Here you will find some questions to use as springboards as you begin to think about the topic. Instructors usually include these questions as suggestions rather than requirements. Do not feel compelled to answer every question unless the instructor asks you to do so. Pay attention to the order of the questions. Sometimes they suggest the thinking process your instructor imagines you will need to follow to begin thinking about the topic.

“You may wish to consider the differing views held by Communist gerbils vs. Monarchist gerbils, or Can there be such a thing as ‘the housefly garment industry’ or is it just a home-based craft?”

These are the instructor’s comments about writing expectations:

“Be concise”, “Write effectively”, or “Argue furiously.”

Technical Details

These instructions usually indicate format rules or guidelines.

“Your paper must be typed in Palatino font on gray paper and must not exceed 600 pages. It is due on the anniversary of Mao Tse-tung’s death.”

The assignment’s parts may not appear in exactly this order, and each part may be very long or really short. Nonetheless, being aware of this standard pattern can help you understand what your instructor wants you to do.

Interpreting the assignment

Ask yourself a few basic questions as you read and jot down the answers on the assignment sheet:

Why did your instructor ask you to do this particular task?

Who is your audience.

  • What kind of evidence do you need to support your ideas?

What kind of writing style is acceptable?

  • What are the absolute rules of the paper?

Try to look at the question from the point of view of the instructor. Recognize that your instructor has a reason for giving you this assignment and for giving it to you at a particular point in the semester. In every assignment, the instructor has a challenge for you. This challenge could be anything from demonstrating an ability to think clearly to demonstrating an ability to use the library. See the assignment not as a vague suggestion of what to do but as an opportunity to show that you can handle the course material as directed. Paper assignments give you more than a topic to discuss—they ask you to do something with the topic. Keep reminding yourself of that. Be careful to avoid the other extreme as well: do not read more into the assignment than what is there.

Of course, your instructor has given you an assignment so that they will be able to assess your understanding of the course material and give you an appropriate grade. But there is more to it than that. Your instructor has tried to design a learning experience of some kind. Your instructor wants you to think about something in a particular way for a particular reason. If you read the course description at the beginning of your syllabus, review the assigned readings, and consider the assignment itself, you may begin to see the plan, purpose, or approach to the subject matter that your instructor has created for you. If you still aren’t sure of the assignment’s goals, try asking the instructor. For help with this, see our handout on getting feedback .

Given your instructor’s efforts, it helps to answer the question: What is my purpose in completing this assignment? Is it to gather research from a variety of outside sources and present a coherent picture? Is it to take material I have been learning in class and apply it to a new situation? Is it to prove a point one way or another? Key words from the assignment can help you figure this out. Look for key terms in the form of active verbs that tell you what to do.

Key Terms: Finding Those Active Verbs

Here are some common key words and definitions to help you think about assignment terms:

Information words Ask you to demonstrate what you know about the subject, such as who, what, when, where, how, and why.

  • define —give the subject’s meaning (according to someone or something). Sometimes you have to give more than one view on the subject’s meaning
  • describe —provide details about the subject by answering question words (such as who, what, when, where, how, and why); you might also give details related to the five senses (what you see, hear, feel, taste, and smell)
  • explain —give reasons why or examples of how something happened
  • illustrate —give descriptive examples of the subject and show how each is connected with the subject
  • summarize —briefly list the important ideas you learned about the subject
  • trace —outline how something has changed or developed from an earlier time to its current form
  • research —gather material from outside sources about the subject, often with the implication or requirement that you will analyze what you have found

Relation words Ask you to demonstrate how things are connected.

  • compare —show how two or more things are similar (and, sometimes, different)
  • contrast —show how two or more things are dissimilar
  • apply—use details that you’ve been given to demonstrate how an idea, theory, or concept works in a particular situation
  • cause —show how one event or series of events made something else happen
  • relate —show or describe the connections between things

Interpretation words Ask you to defend ideas of your own about the subject. Do not see these words as requesting opinion alone (unless the assignment specifically says so), but as requiring opinion that is supported by concrete evidence. Remember examples, principles, definitions, or concepts from class or research and use them in your interpretation.

  • assess —summarize your opinion of the subject and measure it against something
  • prove, justify —give reasons or examples to demonstrate how or why something is the truth
  • evaluate, respond —state your opinion of the subject as good, bad, or some combination of the two, with examples and reasons
  • support —give reasons or evidence for something you believe (be sure to state clearly what it is that you believe)
  • synthesize —put two or more things together that have not been put together in class or in your readings before; do not just summarize one and then the other and say that they are similar or different—you must provide a reason for putting them together that runs all the way through the paper
  • analyze —determine how individual parts create or relate to the whole, figure out how something works, what it might mean, or why it is important
  • argue —take a side and defend it with evidence against the other side

More Clues to Your Purpose As you read the assignment, think about what the teacher does in class:

  • What kinds of textbooks or coursepack did your instructor choose for the course—ones that provide background information, explain theories or perspectives, or argue a point of view?
  • In lecture, does your instructor ask your opinion, try to prove their point of view, or use keywords that show up again in the assignment?
  • What kinds of assignments are typical in this discipline? Social science classes often expect more research. Humanities classes thrive on interpretation and analysis.
  • How do the assignments, readings, and lectures work together in the course? Instructors spend time designing courses, sometimes even arguing with their peers about the most effective course materials. Figuring out the overall design to the course will help you understand what each assignment is meant to achieve.

Now, what about your reader? Most undergraduates think of their audience as the instructor. True, your instructor is a good person to keep in mind as you write. But for the purposes of a good paper, think of your audience as someone like your roommate: smart enough to understand a clear, logical argument, but not someone who already knows exactly what is going on in your particular paper. Remember, even if the instructor knows everything there is to know about your paper topic, they still have to read your paper and assess your understanding. In other words, teach the material to your reader.

Aiming a paper at your audience happens in two ways: you make decisions about the tone and the level of information you want to convey.

  • Tone means the “voice” of your paper. Should you be chatty, formal, or objective? Usually you will find some happy medium—you do not want to alienate your reader by sounding condescending or superior, but you do not want to, um, like, totally wig on the man, you know? Eschew ostentatious erudition: some students think the way to sound academic is to use big words. Be careful—you can sound ridiculous, especially if you use the wrong big words.
  • The level of information you use depends on who you think your audience is. If you imagine your audience as your instructor and they already know everything you have to say, you may find yourself leaving out key information that can cause your argument to be unconvincing and illogical. But you do not have to explain every single word or issue. If you are telling your roommate what happened on your favorite science fiction TV show last night, you do not say, “First a dark-haired white man of average height, wearing a suit and carrying a flashlight, walked into the room. Then a purple alien with fifteen arms and at least three eyes turned around. Then the man smiled slightly. In the background, you could hear a clock ticking. The room was fairly dark and had at least two windows that I saw.” You also do not say, “This guy found some aliens. The end.” Find some balance of useful details that support your main point.

You’ll find a much more detailed discussion of these concepts in our handout on audience .

The Grim Truth

With a few exceptions (including some lab and ethnography reports), you are probably being asked to make an argument. You must convince your audience. It is easy to forget this aim when you are researching and writing; as you become involved in your subject matter, you may become enmeshed in the details and focus on learning or simply telling the information you have found. You need to do more than just repeat what you have read. Your writing should have a point, and you should be able to say it in a sentence. Sometimes instructors call this sentence a “thesis” or a “claim.”

So, if your instructor tells you to write about some aspect of oral hygiene, you do not want to just list: “First, you brush your teeth with a soft brush and some peanut butter. Then, you floss with unwaxed, bologna-flavored string. Finally, gargle with bourbon.” Instead, you could say, “Of all the oral cleaning methods, sandblasting removes the most plaque. Therefore it should be recommended by the American Dental Association.” Or, “From an aesthetic perspective, moldy teeth can be quite charming. However, their joys are short-lived.”

Convincing the reader of your argument is the goal of academic writing. It doesn’t have to say “argument” anywhere in the assignment for you to need one. Look at the assignment and think about what kind of argument you could make about it instead of just seeing it as a checklist of information you have to present. For help with understanding the role of argument in academic writing, see our handout on argument .

What kind of evidence do you need?

There are many kinds of evidence, and what type of evidence will work for your assignment can depend on several factors–the discipline, the parameters of the assignment, and your instructor’s preference. Should you use statistics? Historical examples? Do you need to conduct your own experiment? Can you rely on personal experience? See our handout on evidence for suggestions on how to use evidence appropriately.

Make sure you are clear about this part of the assignment, because your use of evidence will be crucial in writing a successful paper. You are not just learning how to argue; you are learning how to argue with specific types of materials and ideas. Ask your instructor what counts as acceptable evidence. You can also ask a librarian for help. No matter what kind of evidence you use, be sure to cite it correctly—see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial .

You cannot always tell from the assignment just what sort of writing style your instructor expects. The instructor may be really laid back in class but still expect you to sound formal in writing. Or the instructor may be fairly formal in class and ask you to write a reflection paper where you need to use “I” and speak from your own experience.

Try to avoid false associations of a particular field with a style (“art historians like wacky creativity,” or “political scientists are boring and just give facts”) and look instead to the types of readings you have been given in class. No one expects you to write like Plato—just use the readings as a guide for what is standard or preferable to your instructor. When in doubt, ask your instructor about the level of formality they expect.

No matter what field you are writing for or what facts you are including, if you do not write so that your reader can understand your main idea, you have wasted your time. So make clarity your main goal. For specific help with style, see our handout on style .

Technical details about the assignment

The technical information you are given in an assignment always seems like the easy part. This section can actually give you lots of little hints about approaching the task. Find out if elements such as page length and citation format (see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial ) are negotiable. Some professors do not have strong preferences as long as you are consistent and fully answer the assignment. Some professors are very specific and will deduct big points for deviations.

Usually, the page length tells you something important: The instructor thinks the size of the paper is appropriate to the assignment’s parameters. In plain English, your instructor is telling you how many pages it should take for you to answer the question as fully as you are expected to. So if an assignment is two pages long, you cannot pad your paper with examples or reword your main idea several times. Hit your one point early, defend it with the clearest example, and finish quickly. If an assignment is ten pages long, you can be more complex in your main points and examples—and if you can only produce five pages for that assignment, you need to see someone for help—as soon as possible.

Tricks that don’t work

Your instructors are not fooled when you:

  • spend more time on the cover page than the essay —graphics, cool binders, and cute titles are no replacement for a well-written paper.
  • use huge fonts, wide margins, or extra spacing to pad the page length —these tricks are immediately obvious to the eye. Most instructors use the same word processor you do. They know what’s possible. Such tactics are especially damning when the instructor has a stack of 60 papers to grade and yours is the only one that low-flying airplane pilots could read.
  • use a paper from another class that covered “sort of similar” material . Again, the instructor has a particular task for you to fulfill in the assignment that usually relates to course material and lectures. Your other paper may not cover this material, and turning in the same paper for more than one course may constitute an Honor Code violation . Ask the instructor—it can’t hurt.
  • get all wacky and “creative” before you answer the question . Showing that you are able to think beyond the boundaries of a simple assignment can be good, but you must do what the assignment calls for first. Again, check with your instructor. A humorous tone can be refreshing for someone grading a stack of papers, but it will not get you a good grade if you have not fulfilled the task.

Critical reading of assignments leads to skills in other types of reading and writing. If you get good at figuring out what the real goals of assignments are, you are going to be better at understanding the goals of all of your classes and fields of study.

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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What Does Understood The Assignment Mean? – Meaning, Uses and More

to the assignment meaning

What Does Understood The Assignment Mean?

The slang phrase understood the assignment is used to praise someone who goes above and beyond or consistently performs well. It can be applied in various situations, such as complimenting someone’s work, outfit, or performance. The phrase gained popularity in 2021, particularly on social media platforms like TikTok and Twitter. The origins of “understood the assignment” are unclear, but it became more widely known after American rapper Tay Money released a song titled “The Assignment” in October 2021. The phrase went viral on Twitter, with users using it to pay tribute to their favorite actors and actresses who excel in their roles. Here are some examples of how to use the phrase “understood the assignment”:

  • “Your presentation was amazing! You really understood the assignment.”
  • “That outfit is fire! You totally understood the assignment.”
  • “I told my son to clean his room, and he really understood the assignment. It’s spotless!”
  • “That new employee really understood the assignment. She’s already making a big impact on the team.”
  • “I’m not sure if I understood the assignment for this project. Can you give me some more guidance?”

The phrase “understood the assignment” is a fun and playful way to praise someone for their exceptional work or effort. It can be used sincerely or sarcastically, depending on the context.

What Does Understood The Assignment Mean From a Girl?

When a girl uses the phrase “understood the assignment,” she typically means the same thing as everyone else. It is a way to praise someone for going above and beyond or consistently performing well. Girls use it in various situations, such as complimenting someone’s work, outfit, or performance.

Here are some key points to consider:

  • Specific meaning from a girl : Girls use the phrase “understood the assignment” to acknowledge and praise someone’s exceptional work or effort.
  • How girls use it : Girls may use the phrase in conversations with their friends, colleagues, or online communities to show appreciation for someone’s achievements.
  • How to reply : If someone says “understood the assignment” to you, you can reply with a simple “thank you” or express your gratitude for their recognition.

Girls use the phrase similarly to everyone else. It is a lighthearted and positive way to acknowledge someone’s accomplishments. So, if a girl says “understood the assignment” to you, take it as a compliment and feel proud of your achievements!

  • Girl A: I just finished my final project for school!
  • Girl B: Nice job! You totally understood the assignment !
  • Girl: I saw your artwork on Instagram. It’s amazing!
  • Artist: Thank you so much! I’m glad you think I understood the assignment .
  • Girl A: Check out this outfit I put together for the party tonight.
  • Girl B: Wow, you look stunning! You definitely understood the assignment .
  • Girl: I just aced my math test!
  • Friend: That’s awesome! You really understood the assignment .
  • Girl A: I finally finished writing my novel.
  • Girl B: That’s incredible! You truly understood the assignment and brought your story to life.

What Does Understood The Assignment Mean From a Guy?

When a guy uses the phrase “understood the assignment,” it can have similar meanings as when a girl uses it. However, there may be some slight differences in how guys use and interpret the slang. Here’s what you need to know:

Complimenting appearance or performance : Like girls, guys may use “understood the assignment” to compliment someone’s appearance or performance. They might use it to acknowledge someone’s stylish outfit, impressive skills, or exceptional work.

Acknowledging achievements : Guys may also use “understood the assignment” to recognize someone’s achievements or efforts. Whether it’s in sports, academics, or any other area, they use it to show appreciation for someone who has gone above and beyond.

Flirting or expressing interest : In some cases, guys may use “understood the assignment” as a flirty hint or a way to express their interest in someone. It can be a playful way of showing admiration and attraction.

Different tone or delivery : While the overall meaning is similar, guys may have a different tone or delivery when using “understood the assignment.” They might use it in a more casual or laid-back manner compared to girls.

If a guy says “understood the assignment” to you, here are a few things to consider:

Context of the conversation : Pay attention to the context in which he used the phrase. Was it in response to something specific you did or said? Understanding the context can give you clues about his intentions.

Your relationship with him : Consider your relationship with this guy. Are you friends, dating, or just acquaintances? The meaning behind his use of “understood the assignment” can vary depending on your relationship dynamics.

Body language and tone : Take note of his body language and tone of voice when he says it. Does he seem serious, playful, or flirtatious? These non-verbal cues can provide additional context to help you understand his intentions.

Of course, it’s important to remember that not every guy will use “understood the assignment” in the same way. Some may use it casually without any specific meaning, while others may use it as a genuine compliment or flirtation. If you’re unsure about his intentions, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification or simply take it as a positive acknowledgment of your achievements.

  • Guy 1: Dude, did you see that new video game trailer? It looks insane!
  • Guy 2: Yeah, the graphics are next level. The developers really understood the assignment .
  • Guy 1: Check out this painting I just finished. What do you think?
  • Guy 2: Wow, man! You really understood the assignment . It’s so detailed and vibrant.
  • Guy 1: I aced my math test today!
  • Guy 2: Nice job, dude! You definitely understood the assignment . Math can be tough, but you nailed it.
  • Guy 1: I just finished renovating my apartment. Take a look!
  • Guy 2: Whoa, it looks amazing! You totally understood the assignment . The design is on point.
  • Guy: I saw your dance performance last night. You killed it!
  • Girl: Thanks! I practiced so hard. I’m glad it paid off.
  • Guy: It definitely did. You absolutely understood the assignment on that stage!

What Does Understood The Assignment Mean Sexually?

No, “understood the assignment” does not have a sexual or NSFW meaning. It is a slang phrase used to praise someone who goes above and beyond or consistently performs well in various situations.

Origin of Understood The Assignment

The origins of the phrase “understood the assignment” are unclear. It gained popularity in 2021, particularly on social media platforms like TikTok and Twitter. It is possible that the phrase originated from the common understanding of assignments in school or the workplace, where individuals who excel or consistently perform well are said to have understood the assignment. However, it is also possible that the phrase emerged organically as a catchy and expressive way to praise someone’s exceptional work or effort. Without further information, it is difficult to determine if it is a derived word or a popular typo.

Frequently Asked Questions

Slangs similar to understood the assignment.

The slang phrase “understood the assignment” is similar to the words “outdated,” “trying too hard,” “conformist,” “on trend,” “generic,” and “out of touch” because they all describe someone or something that is not keeping up with trends, not standing out, or lacking originality or uniqueness. These terms are used to criticize or describe someone or something that is not meeting expectations or societal norms.

Is Understood The Assignment A Bad Word?

No, “understood the assignment” is not a bad word or vulgar word. It is a phrase used to praise someone who goes above and beyond to do a good job or who is always on point. It gained popularity in 2021 and is often used on social media platforms like TikTok and Twitter to remark about fantastic and on point things.

Is Understood The Assignment a Typo or Misspelling?

The term “dyat” could be a misspelling or typo, as it is not a recognized word and may have been mistyped due to its similarity to the word “dat” or “diet.”

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Understood the Assignment Meaning: What Does the Phrase Mean?

If you’re a regular user of social media, you might have come across the phrase “understood the assignment” in recent times. The phrase has gained a lot of popularity on Twitter, TikTok, and other social media platforms, and it is often used to acknowledge someone who has done an exceptional job or exceeded expectations. In this article, we’ll explore the understood the assignment meaning and how it has become a popular phrase on social media.

Understood the Assignment Meaning

Understood the Assignment Meaning: What Does the Phrase Mean?

What Does Understood the Assignment Mean?

“Understood the Assignment” is a slang phrase that gained popularity in 2021, particularly on social media platforms like TikTok and Twitter. The phrase is used to acknowledge someone who has done an exceptional job or exceeded expectations. It is often used in the context of school assignments or work projects, where individuals are expected to complete a task or meet a certain standard.

The phrase implies that the person has not only completed the task at hand but has done so in a way that demonstrates a deep understanding of the requirements and expectations. The phrase has since become a popular hashtag and is commonly used in text messages, social media posts, and online chat rooms to express admiration or approval of someone’s work or performance.

Origin of ‘Understood the Assignment’ Phrase

If you’ve been on social media lately, you’ve probably seen the phrase “understood the assignment” being used quite frequently. But where did this phrase come from, and why has it become so popular?

The phrase “understood the assignment” originated from the American rapper Tay Money’s song “The Assignment,” which was released in 2021. In the song, Tay Money raps, “Tay, you killed this. I understood the assignment.” The phrase quickly caught on and became a popular way to express praise or criticism in slang.

Since then, the phrase has been used in various contexts, from school assignments to fashion choices. It’s often used to acknowledge someone’s efforts or accomplishments, particularly when they’ve gone above and beyond what was expected of them.

On Twitter, the phrase has also been associated with a specific meme. The meme features a picture of a woman wearing a white shirt and black pants, with the phrase “understood the assignment” written across the bottom. The meme is often used to mock people who have failed to meet expectations or who have made a mistake.

Popularity and Usage in Social Media

If you’re active on social media, you’ve probably seen the phrase “understood the assignment” being used quite frequently. It has become a popular slang expression to convey praise or criticism. The phrase has been in use since at least 2015, but it gained mainstream popularity in 2021 when it started trending on TikTok and Twitter.

The phrase is used to acknowledge someone who has done an exceptional job or exceeded expectations. It’s pretty much like giving someone an “A+” or stamping something with your seal of approval. For example, if a celebrity shows up to an event in an outfit that perfectly matches the theme, you might say they “understood the assignment.”

The phrase has become so popular that it has even been used by big brands like McDonald’s and Starbucks in their social media campaigns. McDonald’s used the phrase in a tweet to promote their BTS meal, and Starbucks used it to promote their new line of summer drinks. This shows how the phrase has become a part of popular culture and is being used by people from all walks of life.

The phrase has also become a meme, with people using it to make jokes or sarcastic comments. For example, if someone does something completely unrelated to what they were supposed to do, you might say they “didn’t understand the assignment.” This shows how the phrase has evolved and taken on a life of its own in the world of social media.

Examples of ‘Understood the Assignment’

When someone says “understood the assignment,” they are acknowledging that someone has done an exceptional job or exceeded expectations. Here are some examples of how this phrase can be used:

  • A student might say, “I understood the assignment and got an A on the paper.”
  • A coach might say, “The team really understood the assignment and executed the game plan perfectly.”
  • A designer might say, “The client loved the final product because we really understood the assignment and delivered exactly what they wanted.”

This phrase can also be used in a more playful or humorous way. For example, someone might say, “Beyoncé really understood the assignment with that outfit she wore to the Met Gala ,” meaning that she looked amazing and perfectly captured the theme of the event.

Another example could be, “The new Netflix series really understood the assignment when it came to creating a compelling storyline and characters that viewers can’t get enough of.”

Overall, “understood the assignment” is a versatile phrase that can be used in a variety of contexts to praise someone for doing an exceptional job or meeting and exceeding expectations.

Impact on Popular Culture

Popular culture is a reflection of society’s norms, values, and beliefs. It is a dynamic entity that evolves with time and influences people’s behavior, fashion, and lifestyle. Popular culture has a significant impact on society, shaping the way people think, act, and perceive the world around them.

One of the most significant impacts of popular culture is its influence on fashion. Popular culture often sets the trends in clothing, hairstyles, and accessories. For example, the popularity of the TV show Friends in the 1990s led to the trend of “The Rachel” haircut, which was named after the character Rachel Green, played by Jennifer Aniston. Similarly, the popularity of the movie Grease in the 1970s led to the revival of 1950s fashion, with leather jackets, tight jeans, and poodle skirts becoming popular again.

Popular culture also influences people’s behavior and lifestyle choices. For example, the popularity of fitness and health-related TV shows and social media influencers has led to an increase in gym memberships and healthy eating habits. Similarly, the popularity of travel-related shows and social media accounts has led to an increase in tourism and travel-related activities.

In conclusion, popular culture has a significant impact on society, shaping the way people think, act, and perceive the world around them. It influences fashion, behavior, lifestyle choices, language, and communication. As such, it is essential to understand the impact of popular culture and how it shapes our lives.

Criticism and Controversy

While “Understood the Assignment” is generally used to praise someone’s efforts, there have been some criticisms and controversies surrounding the phrase.

One criticism is that it can be used to pressure people into conforming to certain standards or expectations. For example, if someone posts a picture or video and doesn’t receive the “Understood the Assignment” comment, they may feel like they didn’t do a good enough job or that they didn’t meet the expectations of others.

Additionally, some people have argued that the phrase is overused and has lost its meaning. It’s become a catch-all phrase for any kind of praise, regardless of whether or not the person actually understood the assignment or put in a lot of effort.

There have also been controversies surrounding the phrase’s origins. While it’s generally accepted that the phrase originated on TikTok, there have been claims that it was actually first used in other contexts or by other people. However, there’s no definitive proof to support these claims.

Despite these criticisms and controversies, “Understood the Assignment” remains a popular phrase on social media and continues to be used as a way to praise people’s efforts and accomplishments.

Variations and Adaptations

When it comes to the “understood the assignment” trend, there are many variations and adaptations that people have come up with to express the same sentiment. Here are some of the most popular ones:

One common variation is to use the phrase in a humorous or sarcastic way. For example, someone might say “I understood the assignment” while holding up a blank piece of paper or a completely unrelated object. This type of parody is meant to poke fun at the original meaning of the phrase and show that the speaker did not actually understand the assignment.

Another popular adaptation of the trend is to turn it into a meme. This often involves taking a picture or video of someone who is clearly not “understanding the assignment” and adding the phrase as a caption. Memes like these can be found all over social media and are often used to make light of situations where someone is not living up to expectations.

Overall, the “understood the assignment” trend has taken on a life of its own and has become a popular way for people to express their dedication and hard work. While there are many variations and adaptations of the trend, the core message remains the same: that the speaker is giving it their all and doing everything they can to succeed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some quotes about understanding an assignment?

There are many quotes about understanding an assignment, but one of the most popular is “I understood the assignment, but I just didn’t do it.” This quote is often used humorously to express frustration with procrastination or laziness.

What are some synonyms for understanding an assignment?

Some synonyms for understanding an assignment include comprehending, grasping, and getting. These words all describe the ability to fully understand and engage with an assignment or task.

What are some examples of understanding an assignment?

Examples of understanding an assignment might include completing all of the required tasks, following all of the instructions, and producing high-quality work. Understanding an assignment also involves being able to ask questions and seek clarification when necessary.

What is the origin of the phrase ‘understood the assignment’?

The origin of the phrase ‘understood the assignment’ is unclear, but it has become a popular expression on social media and in popular culture. The phrase is often used to praise someone who is giving their all and doing their best.

What does it mean to ‘get’ an assignment?

To ‘get’ an assignment means to fully understand and comprehend what is required in order to complete the task successfully. This involves reading and following all instructions, asking questions if necessary, and producing high-quality work.

What is the meaning of explaining in an assignment?

Explaining in an assignment involves providing clear and concise explanations of concepts, ideas, or processes. This may involve using examples, diagrams, or other visual aids to help the reader understand the material. A well-written explanation should be easy to follow and understand.

Last Updated on September 29, 2023

Let Him Cook Meaning: What Does "Let Him Cook" Mean?

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Assignments

  • by teachmint@wp

What is assignment in education? Assignment meaning is the tasks given to students by their teachers and tutors to complete in a defined time. They can also be referred to as the work given to someone as a part of learning. Assignments can be in the form of written, practical, art or fieldwork, or even online. Their purpose is to ensure that students understand the subject matter thoroughly.

Generally, students are assigned a task as a part of their homework. The allocation of assignments is not only restricted to a class or subject but this method can be applied at any stage of life. They are a great way to judge the ability and understanding of an individual towards a subject matter.

The culture of providing homework starts from kindergarten in various forms. Small children are asked to read and write what they learn in the class. Students in the higher class are given work as a part of their revision exercise and help them prepare for exams. Individuals doing honors write journals as a part of an assignment that determines their knowledge in that subject.

The structure of assignments depends upon the nature of the task and subject. They must be well-researched, including case studies or examples within a proper framework. These studies are useful for students to achieve the desired examination results. It also helps them to concentrate better on education. Knowing what is assignment in education helps teachers assess students better.

Importance of Assignments

Giving assignments to the students is a crucial part of student assessment. The importance of giving assignments to the students is discussed in detail below:

  • Learning practical skills Assignments enable students to develop new skills. In order to complete the assignments, students learn new skills which help them in their academic careers. 
  • Enhances time management skills Whenever assignments are allocated to the students, a time limit is set by teachers within which the assignment has to be submitted. What is assignment in education enable students to complete their tasks and learn timely submission of work. 
  • Learning researching skills Students tend to do a lot of research about the questions given in the assignment. Assignment meaning is to help them develop their research skills and come in handy in their future careers. 
  • Enhance the Writing Caliber Many students have a problem of not being able to put their thoughts into words. Writing assignments can help them develop writing skills and be expressive in real life as well. 

Since assignments are deadline-based, they help students take responsibility and manage time. The work assigned to students may be individual or group activities, or both, to develop teamwork in them. 

The above-mentioned information gives us a context of assignment meaning and its importance to the students. Assignments provide a basis for the student assessment and should be given timely.  

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The Assignment with Audie Cornish

Every monday on the assignment, host audie cornish explores the animating forces of american politics. it’s not about the horserace, it’s about the larger cultural ideas driving the american electorate. audie draws on the deep well of cnn reporters, editors, and contributors to examine topics like the nuances of building electoral coalitions, and the role the media plays in modern elections.  every thursday, audie pulls listeners out of their digital echo chambers to hear from the people whose lives intersect with the news cycle, as well as deep conversations with people driving the headlines. from astrology’s modern renaissance to the free speech wars on campus, no topic is off the table..

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What does it mean for a news story to matter? To have impact on YOU, the audience? Does it have to be about a person who has been wronged? An institution caught in a cover up? Do you need to feel like it could affect your life personally? Audie wrestled these questions while serving as judge for this year’s Livingston Awards, which recognize impactful journalism by reporters under the age of 35. She calls up this year’s winners: Allison Behringer and Lila Hassan , for their work covering medical mysteries for the Bodies podcast, and Samantha Hogan for her deep dive into probate and guardianship in Maine. 

You can check out more of their award-winning reporting below: 

Early Birds episode of Bodies 

The Fight for Abortion Training episode of Bodies 

Calls to overhaul Maine probate courts have stalled for half a century. The most vulnerable people may be at risk by Samantha Hogan 

Eight deaths raise questions about oversight of Maine’s public guardianships by Samantha Hogan 

© 2024 Cable News Network. A Warner Bros. Discovery Company. All Rights Reserved. CNN Audio's transcripts are made available as soon as possible. They are not fully edited for grammar or spelling and may be revised in the future. The audio record represents the final version of CNN Audio.

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Definition of assignment noun from the Oxford Advanced American Dictionary

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  • 2 [ uncountable ] the act of giving something to someone; the act of giving someone a particular task his assignment to other duties in the same company

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Understanding Arbitrage

Anna-Louise Jackson

Updated: Dec 16, 2022, 6:44pm

Understanding Arbitrage

Arbitrage means taking advantage of price differences across markets to make a buck. If a currency, commodity or security—or even a rare pair of sneakers—is priced differently in two separate markets, traders buy the cheaper version and then sell it at the higher price to make money.

Understanding How Arbitrage Works

Arbitrage is an investing strategy in which people aim to profit from varying prices for the same asset in different markets.

Quick-thinking traders have always taken advantage of arbitrage opportunities in markets. Today, financial professionals use sophisticated algorithms to discover and exploit complicated arbitrage strategies.

Often the price discrepancies that are at the heart of arbitrage involve multiple geographies, like you see in the foreign exchange market . They also occur when there is a lag in information, as can be the case with stocks trading on different exchanges or in cryptocurrency arbitrage.

Big institutions, hedge funds and professional traders may also be able to leverage what’s known as statistical arbitrage, which uses algorithms to identify temporary price mismatches in two or more related securities.

Arbitrage usually involves making multiple transactions and using very large amounts of money to get a meaningful return, making it an expensive approach to investing. While markets rarely operate as efficiently as they might in the ideal world of theory, price differences typically are small, and arbitrage opportunities disappear almost as rapidly as they are discovered.

Different Types of Arbitrage

Retail arbitrage.

Retail arbitrage is an example of arbitrage that everyone can instantly understand. When there’s a particularly popular item—say a hot new toy, a rare pair of sneakers or a new mobile phone—people buy it in one market (a physical store, perhaps) and then sell it in another market (online, maybe) to turn a quick profit.

This is a classic strategy that perfectly illustrates the basics of arbitrage. The buyer assumes the risks of acquiring inventory and the uncertainty of whether they’ll be able to sell it at the price they’d hoped for. But the arbitrage payoff could be huge!

Simple Arbitrage

Simple arbitrage involves simultaneously buying and selling one asset on two different exchanges. Unlike retail arbitrage, traders may assume very little risk because the transactions are executed at the same time.

Consider, for example, a public company that trades on multiple stock exchanges . If the stock is trading at different prices on the different exchanges, a simple arbitrage strategy entails buying the stock at the lower price on one exchange while at the same time selling it at the higher price on the other exchange.

Merger Arbitrage

A riskier arbitrage strategy involves leveraging mergers and acquisitions of public companies. Merger arbitrage is a longer-term proposition: Traders buy the shares of a public company that’s targeted for a takeover with the aim of selling the stock once the deal is completed.

Unlike other forms of arbitrage, the price discrepancy isn’t apparent upfront in merger arbitrage. There’s no guarantee of earning a risk-free profit—rather, traders are betting that one could materialize.

Doing merger arbitrage means you have to lock up your money for a longer period of time plus take on the risk that the merger doesn’t materialize, or you aren’t able to resell your shares at the value you’d aimed for.

Arbitrage in Forex Markets

The foreign exchange market is the largest financial market in the world—and it’s ripe for arbitrage strategies. Because all forex trading occurs over the counter (OTC) through a global network of banks and other financial institutions, the decentralized nature of this market sometimes leads to pricing disparities.

What’s more, exchange rates constantly fluctuate based on supply and demand, so temporary price mismatches are common. There’s also a lot of liquidity in the currency market, meaning it’s easy to execute trades for an arbitrage strategy. All of these reasons enable arbitrage to be widely used in forex trading.

To take advantage of these opportunities, though, you’ll likely need highly specialized tools, access to accurate, real-time currency pricing data and a margin account to amplify your returns.

In addition, special forex calculators help traders identify and quantify the profit as well as gauge the risk of various arbitrage strategies in forex markets. Arbitrageurs can test drive free online calculators; more sophisticated calculators are sold by forex brokers and other providers.

Triangular Arbitrage

Triangular arbitrage is a strategy that’s unique to forex markets. As the name suggests, triangular arbitrage involves three currency pairs, adding a layer of complexity that requires sophisticated trading capabilities.

While very uncommon, a triangular arbitrage opportunity could present itself when there are discrepancies in the foreign exchange market. Here’s how it works: A forex trader would use Currency A to buy Currency B, then Currency B to buy Currency C, and finally Currency C to buy Currency A, hopefully accruing a tidy profit in the process.

With this unique strategy, the differences between exchange rates are very minimal, requiring you to convert very large amounts of money to eke out even small profits.

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The Bottom Line

Be it in the forex markets or elsewhere, the appeal of arbitrage strategies is obvious: Identify mismatches in prices, and you just might just be able to lock in a risk-free return. That said, arbitrage typically requires large amounts of capital and deep knowledge of markets to be executed correctly.

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Every D&D Class, Ranked By Combat Ability

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Many say traditional Dungeons & Dragons gameplay has three main pillars: combat, exploration, and roleplaying. Of these, combat has the most concrete mechanics attached to it. As such, many players gravitate toward it. It's also one of the easiest metrics to rank classes on, with some classes excelling in this arena and others struggling a bit.

Many factors come into play when discussing just how strong a D&D class is during combat. Factors like player skill, magic items, and the campaign's specifics are impossible to account for. These can all have vast effects on particular classes. However, it's possible to make a rough comparison just by looking at a class' combat features and their access to certain types of weapons and armor.

Updated on June 16th, 2024 by Louis Kemner: This list of the best combat classes in D&D has been updated with more information so players can make highly informed decisions about how to use their characters in combat — or when to avoid combat while playing as certain classes. This can save a character's life in any campaign or one-shot adventure since there are often alternatives to fighting.

Dungeons and Dragons Split Screen of Cleric, Ranger and a Monk

Every Dungeons & Dragons Class, Ranked By Spellcasting Ability

Dungeons & Dragons is known for its magic mechanics, and almost every class has a form of arcane power — some are simply more magical than others.

13 Bards Are Meant To Support Friendly Fighters Instead

The bard class's best combat features:.

  • College of Swords subclass
  • Proficiencies with basic weapons like hand crossbows and rapiers
  • Can learn offensive spells from other classes via Magical Secrets
  • College of Swords bards can use scimitars and medium armor

The D&D bard class is a typical example of an all-rounder. Bards can do everything well, but they might lose out to a specialist in a specific area. They aren't helpless in combat, but they're held back by one factor: bards lack a way to deal significant damage without expending key resources like their spell slots. Other spellcasters may face that problem too, but at least they get, on average, harder-hitting spells than bards do.

Bards are the only D&D class to lack significant weapon damage — barring subclasses like the College of Swords — or a high-damage cantrip. To have a particular impact in combat, they must expend spell slots or use magic items. Bards can devastate enemies with plentiful buffs and debuffs. By themselves, however, they're less of a threat than others. As a result, this is the single worst D&D class in a fight in terms of trying to quickly kill enemies. That's why bards shine as support characters, not as damage dealers.

12 Artificers Would Rather Build Weapons Than Use Them

The artificer class's best combat features:.

  • Battle Smith subclass
  • Proficiencies with light/medium armor and shields

The first class added to D&D Fifth Edition since its release, the artificer is a "half-caster" found in the Eberron book. They have less spellcasting potential than the wizard or cleric. Other half-casters like the paladin and ranger trade out spellcasting for martial power, but the artificer gets a more unique selection of powers instead, mainly with their class traits. Those traits reward resourceful thinking, mostly outside of combat and inside a workshop. The best artificers will certainly be roleplayed that way.

D&D Artificers can hold their own in a fight, but their true potential lies in buffing allies and providing support. Healing, protecting allies, enchanting equipment, and casting buffs are often the most useful things an artificer can do. Depending on the subclass, D&D artificers can still deal respectable damage using either weapon attacks or buffed spells. However, they're far from the strongest D&D class for direct combat.

11 Rogues Favor Stealth And Evasion Over Damage

A split image showing the DnD druid, bard, and fighter in One D&D changes

How Each D&D Class Has Changed In One D&D

One D&D makes some significant changes from 5e, but the degree to which each class has been changed varies significantly.

The Rogue Class's Best Combat Features:

  • Swashbuckler subclass
  • Sneak Attack
  • Cunning Action for mobility and defense
  • Evasion and Uncanny Dodge to avoid damage

Rogues bolster any party. Aside from a ludicrous number of skills and utility, they contribute in combat through their Sneak Attack . This mechanic lets rogues add an increasing number of dice to their weapon damage, but it requires them to have advantage or an ally within five feet of the enemy. Rogues also only get one attack per turn, so they must be careful with that attack. Rogues can multiclass into fighter to get more attacks, but even then, they get just one Sneak Attack per turn, and these classes' combat abilities must be fairly measured without any multiclassing.

Sneak Attack isn't hard to use in D&D , but it can be less impactful than many players hope. It does let a rogue hold their own in a fight, but one high-damage attack will often do less damage than several hard-hitting attacks from another class. This disparity only increases when characters get damage-boosting magic weapons. Nonetheless, a D&D rogue can contribute well both in and out of combat, primarily if they belong to the Swashbuckler subclass. Such characters are highly mobile and can even draw enemy fire, then evade those attacks, and leave the party free to finish the job.

10 Monks Excel In Bare-Handed Combat

An open hand Monk has a glowing eye on her forehead.

The Monk Class's Best Combat Features:

  • Way of Mercy subclass
  • Unarmored Defense
  • Ki Points for added combat options
  • Deflect Missiles

Monks are something of a black sheep among D&D 5e 's martial classes. Many players consider them one of D&D 's weaker classes, but monks excel in combat when they fulfill a specific role. Rather than standing and fighting like the D&D fighter or barbarian, the monk proves a more nimble class. They can slip past frontline enemies and attack more vulnerable foes, which is great if they must get around enemy "bodyguard" monsters to attack a spellcaster directly.

Monks can do several things to their chosen targets. One thing D&D monks can do is use Stunning Strike on their target, potentially up to four times per turn. This leaves enemies helpless if they fail a Constitution saving throw. Monks can struggle with dealing damage, but they're still one of the best D&D classes for dominating fragile foes, at least.

9 Warlocks Hit Hard With Their Limited Spells, Like Eldritch Blast

The warlock class's best combat features:.

  • Hexblade subclass
  • Defensive spells like Armor of Agathys for survival
  • Eldritch Blast is the game's best offensive cantrip
  • Hex to deal extra necrotic damage to enemies

Warlocks are unusual spellcasters to build in D&D 5e . They don't use the long rest-focused Spellcasting like other casting classes. Instead, they use the short rest-based Pact Magic. Warlocks have a smaller number of higher-level spell slots they get back more often. To complement this, warlocks gain Eldritch Blast. This is the most damaging cantrip in D&D when buffed with Agonizing Blast.

This gives the D&D warlock a source of constant high damage that other casters lack, but they fall off in other areas. Warlocks can't buff their cantrip's damage with magic weapons or feats like martial classes can with their weapons. Similarly, they get fewer powerful spells than other casters. Warlocks are the best D&D spellcaster class for reliable damage, but that's where their expertise ends. Warlocks may excel in short battles, though, where they can spend 2–3 rounds using powerful spells to turn the tide of battle and win before they fall back on Eldritch Blast.

8 Barbarians Are Tanks With Rage-Fueled Attacks

A split image showing a wizard, fighter, and bard in DnD

The Easiest Mistakes To Make Building Each Dungeons & Dragons Class

It's hard to build a truly ineffective character in D&D 5e, but there are still some pitfalls to watch out for in each class.

The Barbarian Class's Best Combat Features:

  • Path of the Zealot subclass
  • Rage to halve damage from piercing, bludgeoning, and slashing attacks, and deal extra damage
  • Brutal Critical for extra damage dice
  • Reckless Attack to give advantage with attacks

Given the barbarian's limited out-of-combat abilities, players expect it to be the best D&D class in a straight-up fight. For a large part of the game, players are right. Barbarians have a huge number of hit points, offensive and defensive buffs from Rage, and other combat-boosting abilities like Reckless Attack. These make them one of the strongest D&D classes at lower levels, especially if the barbarian is smart enough to put themselves between the enemy and their party.

That said, D&D barbarians begin losing effectiveness in the latter half of the game. Their damage only increases slightly, and they're stuck at two attacks when the fighter can get up to four. At the same time, other classes get wilder and more powerful abilities. A D&D barbarian never stops being useful in combat, but they fall off relative to other classes. At that point, the barbarian class is indeed more of a tank than a dedicated damage dealer, and if handled correctly, that can be a fairly good (but not amazing) asset for the party.

7 Rangers Are Fine Archers In Wild Terrain

The ranger class's best combat features:.

  • Gloom stalker subclass
  • Extra attack
  • Fighting Styles for added combat tricks
  • Favored enemy

Many fans consider rangers one of D&D 5e 's weakest classes. Despite this, combat is one area where they stand up on their own. As a base class, they have a few holes. They lack any real way to increase their damage in the later game and are overly reliant on ranger-style spells . However, rangers have ways to make up for this.

Most of the ranger's D&D subclasses provide significant damage buffs, both in the early game and later on. On top of that, rangers have been buffed several times throughout D&D 5e . In particular, Tasha's Cauldron of Everything gives them new combat abilities. A ranger remains one of D&D 's most capable martial classes throughout a campaign. They can help the party take down a flying dragon with their bows, Hunter's Mark adds damage, and they can even dabble in healing if need be.

6 Wizards Can Learn Potent Offensive Magic As Well As Utility Magic

The wizard class's best combat features:.

  • Chronurgy Magic subclass
  • Can use light crossbows as backup weapons
  • Abjurer wizards can defend themselves with Arcane Ward

Wizards are undeniably one of the most flexible classes in D&D 5e . Wizards have D&D 5e 's biggest spell list and the ability to prepare a huge range of magic to bring against their foes. A wizard can excel in almost anything they turn their mind to, including combat. D&D wizards have access to many useful spells in combat, and they can deal lots of area-of-effect damage. Players should note, though, that wizards cannot enhance their combat spells with Metamagic like sorcerers do unless they take the Metamagic Adept feat, which is usually a good call.

Alternatively, they can buff allies, debuff enemies, or move creatures around the battlefield. Wizards can struggle with dealing damage to single targets, which weapons are often better for. In addition, they have infamously low Armor Class and hit points. None of this stops them from being one of D&D 5e 's strongest classes, however, especially if the player tries out subclasses like War Caster or Chronurgy. If a wizard wants to survive, they can cast spells like Shield and Absorb Elements, and School of Abjuration wizards will be even tougher with their Arcane Ward to absorb damage, buying them time to reposition and cast another explosive spell.

5 Druids Embrace The Savagery Of The Wild

A split image of two dnd characters a bard and a cleric

Every D&D Class, Ranked By Support Abilities

Every D&D party needs a good support character, and some classes are much more suited to the job than others.

The Druid Class's Best Combat Features:

  • Circle of the Stars subclass
  • Wildshape to become combat-ready animals, like bears
  • Proficiencies with light/medium armor and shields not made of metal

D&D druids are a versatile and powerful class, helpful during and outside of combat, but in a fight, their abilities can get in each other's way. In particular, their powerful D&D spellcasting can conflict with a Circle of the Moon druid's Combat Wild Shape feature. Circle of the Moon druids can turn into bigger, meaner animals than other druids, making them great warriors for a battle-oriented party.

Druids are full casters, capable of casting spells that reshape the battlefield, but they can't cast while in Wild Shape, the primary combat feature of the Circle of the Moon. Other subclasses that lack this divide make for some of D&D 's strongest combat characters. In particular, the Circle of the Stars can concentrate almost endlessly on powerful spells or output huge damage. In some cases, a druid might even use Polymorph to turn into something huge like a T-rex or giant ape to Hulk out against their enemies.

4 Sorcerers Specialize In Offensive Magic And Metamagic

A DnD 5e sorcerer gathering the energy to cast a fiery spell

The Sorcerer Class's Best Combat Features:

  • Clockwork Soul subclass
  • Sorcery Points to enhance offensive spells

In contrast to other spellcasters' versatility, D&D sorcerers are designed to be built as specialists, receiving several ways to modify and improve their spells. A player can build their sorcerer to be effective at any part of the game, including combat. Like wizards, sorcerers are a bit squishy, but if they position themselves well, that shouldn't be a problem.

D&D sorcerers can be built to be more effective damage dealers, buffers, debuffers, or controllers than most other spellcasters — but this comes with a catch. Their abilities rely on two resources: Sorcery Points and spell slots. Running out of either leaves a sorcerer on the back foot. As long as a player can maintain these resources, however, sorcerers are one of D&D 5e 's strongest combat classes. For example, using Quicken allows a sorcerer to inflict pain with a spell like Fireball and an offensive cantrip. Or, the sorcerer might use Empowered Spell to reroll damage dice on a spell like Chain Lightning or Cone of Cold to boost the overall damage.

3 Fighters Are Meant Solely For Combat

The fighter class's best combat features:.

  • Battle Master subclass
  • Proficiencies with all armor, shields, and simple/martial weapons
  • Action Aurge for another attack
  • Multiple instances of gaining Extra Attack

The D&D fighter has plenty of complex and sophisticated subclasses, but the class itself is simple to play, and it can be fun to roleplay despite its simplicity , too. At their base, D&D 's fighters are designed to plant themselves in the middle of combat, hit their enemies hard, and take lots of damage. This simple tactic works throughout the entire game, even at the highest levels.

Fighters get the best armor, have some of the highest hit points, and make more weapon attacks than any other class in D&D . Fighters are one of the most powerful D&D combat classes at any point in the game. Their high number of attacks makes them even better when they acquire some of D&D 's best magical weapons, which they should always seek out, such as +3 swords or longbows, and adamantine armor.

2 Clerics Are Tough And Smite Evil In Any Fight

dnd 5e dragonlance wielded by Laurana

Dungeons & Dragons' Martial Classes Need a Makeover

Dungeons & Dragons spends chapters offering rich options to their spellcasters -- while leaving little more than footnotes for their martial classes.

The Cleric Class's Best Combat Features:

  • Twilight Domain subclass
  • Light/medium armor and shield proficiency
  • Blessed Strikes to deal extra radiant damage

Clerics are invaluable to any D&D party. Their mechanics in older D&D editions lead many to think that clerics are only good for healing, but this is only one of many roles clerics excel at. Boasting more flexibility and power than ever before, clerics are one of the strongest and most versatile classes in D&D 5e . They are almost like healers and paladins put together, albeit with smaller hit dice than paladins.

D&D Clerics have access to plenty of powerful combat-related spells. Some subclasses deal buffed damage with cantrips, and others get access to D&D 's best arms and armor. Clerics can hold their own on the front lines of combat or punish enemies from range. This is all on top of their powerful and flexible spell list, which includes some nifty control spells like Banishment, which can make any fight easy when targeting the right monster to create a "divide and conquer" scenario.

1 Paladins Excel In Battle With Their Smites, Armor, Weapons, And Spells

The paladin class's best combat features:.

  • Oath of Conquest subclass
  • Divine Smite for added radiant damage
  • Extra Attack
  • Proficiency with all armor, shields, and simple/martial weapons

The paladin is perhaps the most powerful class in D&D 5e . Paladins combine the best aspects of fighters and clerics into a single character. Paladins get a fighter's weapons, spellcasting like a cleric, and several unique features. These make paladins unmatched combatants in D&D , so it's a good idea for most parties to have a paladin, especially in a tough campaign or a fiend-themed campaign like Baldur's Gate: Descent Into Avernus .

A D&D paladin is almost always effective. They can hold their own, even if they're not built with optimization in mind. They can heal, buff, tank, and deal consistent damage. With Divine Smite, paladins can reach some of the highest damage in the game. Paladins are one of D&D 's best classes in any situation, but especially in combat. They can also make excellent use of high-end magic weapons and armor, like fighters, which even includes the Holy Avenger — an almost unfairly powerful tool against fiends and undead.

A snapshot of the classic Dungeons and Dragons poster

Dungeons and Dragons

A fantasy roleplaying tabletop game designed for adventure-seekers, the original incarnation of Dungeons & Dragons was created by Gary Gygax in 1974.

Dungeons & Dragons is the fantasy tabletop role-playing game that has persevered for nearly 50 years and continues to grow strong. Created by Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson, the game first made publication in 1974 and now falls under the Wizards of the Coast publishing wing. A typical game of DnD consists of 4-6 players, with one player acting as the Dungeon Master. Players can take a sheet and by consulting the various rule books and expansions, can create their own character with weapons, skills, and physical appearance. Once all characters are created, the Dungeon Master sets them off in a campaign of their choosing or design, where players will have to follow the rules of the DM as they roleplay their way through storylines. The characters will level up, find equipment, and experience permanent changes based on the way the story plays out. A roll of the dice can mean the difference between a successful hit, and a painful end. The most recent edition of Dungeons & Dragons is the 5th edition rule book.

Dungeons & Dragons

Lesson Plan

June 17, 2024, 6:05 a.m.

Lesson plan: History of Juneteenth and why it became a national holiday

Juneteenth-Richmond-VA-1905-e1623898523941

A Juneteenth celebration in Richmond, Virginia, 1905. Library of Congress

This lesson was originally published on June 16, 2021, and was updated on June 16, 2024.

For a Google version of this lesson plan, click here . (Note: you will need to make a copy of the document to edit it).

In this lesson, students will explore and discuss the history and context around the Juneteenth holiday in the United States. Topics explored will include the history of racial injustice in the U.S., the Civil War and the limitations of the Emancipation Proclamation. Additionally, students will be encouraged to explore the modern significance of Juneteenth and its long-term impact.

Estimated time

One 50-60 minute class period

Grade Level

Grades 6-12

On June 15, 2021, the Senate unanimously approved a bill approving June 19 as a federal holiday for “Juneteenth National Independence Day.” The House passed the bill one day later. Still, many Americans are still unaware of the history and significance of June 19.

On Jan. 1, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation declaring “that all persons held as slaves” in the Confederacy “shall be free.” While this may have freed some enslaved people on paper, the reality was much more complicated.

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Source: PBS NewsHour via Associated Press

For instance, the Emancipation Proclamation only freed those slaves held under the Confederacy, not in border states loyal to the Union, including Kentucky, West Virginia and Delaware, where slavery was still legal after the Emancipation Proclamation. In fact, slavery was still legal in Kentucky until Dec. 1865, when the 13th Amendment was passed, though Kentucky voted against ratifying the amendment.

Confederate states and slaveholders also resisted emancipation, and many people remained enslaved in Confederate states after the proclamation, even as many enslaved people fought for their freedom or escaped behind Union lines. On June 19, 1865, Major General Gordon Granger of the Union issued an order in Galveston, Texas, alerting all enslaved persons that they were legally free.

At this point in 1865, Texas was the westernmost state in America and one of the last Confederate states to be occupied by the Union. Many slaveholders had fled Union advances in other parts of the South to Texas, along with the people they had enslaved.

While it took time for the logistics of “freeing” enslaved people to come into effect, the importance of June 19, or “Juneteenth” lived on. Considering how complicated emancipation was, many dates were considered for holding celebrations of emancipation, but over 150 years later, June 19 remains.

What originally was a holiday mainly observed by Texans has grown to be recognized all over the country. Each year on “Juneteenth,” (or more formally Juneteenth National Freedom Day), communities all around the United States gather and celebrate and reflect on the history of slavery and struggle for civil rights and equality, including the work that still remains after conditional advances such as the Emancipation Proclamation.

Warm up activity

As a class, watch the BrainPop video (8 minutes) below found here introducing Juneteenth. While watching the video, answer the following discussion questions.

to the assignment meaning

Source: BrainPop

Discussion questions:

  • What is “Juneteenth”? What does it celebrate?
  • Why did it take so long for enslaved peoples in Texas to finally be free? What obstacles existed?
  • What were some of the forms of discrimination against newly freed people mentioned in the video?
  • What is the Great Migration?
  • How did Juneteenth become a national, not just regional, celebration?

After watching the video, separate into groups of 3-4 to discuss the focus questions (5 minutes).

Main activities:

  • Why was June 19th chosen as the date to celebrate the freedom of all Americans? What were some of the drawbacks to other dates? Can you make an argument for why you think a different date might have been better and/or worse?
  • Gates describes several reasons why Juneteenth struggled to be remembered at times, and why it was able to endure. Compare and contrast what the BrainPop video included as reasons why Juneteenth struggled and endured with what Gate’s emphasizes. What do you think were the most important factors in Juneteenth’s momentum and remembrance continuing?
  • “When did they start recognizing Juneteenth, if at all?”
  • “What was the process of Juneteenth becoming a holiday in my state?”
  • If Juneteenth isn’t recognized in your state, see if you can answer, “Why is Juneteenth not recognized?”
  • This search engine for state and local government websites
  • The Library of Congress

Additional activities

  • Brainstorm or plan a Juneteenth celebration activity. This can be decorating a common area, bringing in a relevant local speaker or planning a refreshment break for your school. Juneteenth celebrations can be in the home, at school or in community locations. For more inspiration see these resources:
  • “ How to Celebrate ” from Juneteenth.com
  • See how others are celebrating Juneteenth on Twitter .
  • Some activists feel ambivalent about Juneteenth becoming a national holiday, or reject the idea. To learn more about the nuances surrounding making Juneteenth a federal holiday, watch this NewsHour interview with Dr. Mark Anthony Neal recorded in 2020 amid the George Floyd protests.

  • The day now known as Juneteenth was formally recognized as a national holiday in 2021, due in large part to the activism of retired teacher Opal Lee. Learn more about Lee's activism and the message of Juneteenth in this NewsHour interview with Opal Lee.

If classrooms finish and plan a celebratory activity, please share your ideas with us on social media @NewsHourEXTRA on Twitter.

This lesson was written by Cecilia Curran, NewsHour Classroom intern, while she was a rising sophomore at Amherst College. This lesson was edited by NewsHour Classroom's education producer and former history teacher Vic Pasquantonio.

Fill out this form to share your thoughts on Classroom’s resources. Sign up for NewsHour Classroom’s ready-to-go Daily News Lessons delivered to your inbox each morning.

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    Assignment definition: The act of assigning. True to my assignment, I recorded movements and time until Quinn's voice from below broke the silence.

  14. What does Understood the Assignment mean?

    For example, if someone shows up to the party in a great outfit in this context, saying they "Understood the assignment" means that the person is at the top of their game and pulled up in a great look. The phrase can also be used sarcastically to criticize someone who has failed to meet expectations or has done a poor job. Overall ...

  15. Assignment

    Define assignment. assignment synonyms, assignment pronunciation, assignment translation, English dictionary definition of assignment. n. 1. The act of assigning: His assignment of the tasks seemed unfair. 2. Something, such as a task, that is assigned: What's the math assignment for...

  16. ASSIGNMENT

    ASSIGNMENT meaning: 1. a piece of work given to someone, typically as part of their studies or job: 2. a job that…. Learn more.

  17. ASSIGNMENT Synonyms: 97 Similar and Opposite Words

    Synonyms for ASSIGNMENT: task, job, duty, project, mission, chore, responsibility, function; Antonyms of ASSIGNMENT: dismissal, discharge, firing, expulsion ...

  18. Understanding Assignments

    An assignment can look pretty straightforward at first, particularly if the instructor has provided lots of information. That does not mean it will not take time and effort to complete; you may even have to learn a new skill to complete the assignment. Ask the instructor about anything you do not understand.

  19. Assignment Definition & Meaning

    1. : a job or duty that is given to someone : a task someone is required to do. [count] My assignment was to clean the equipment. = They gave me the assignment of cleaning the equipment. The students were given a homework assignment. The reporter's assignment is to interview the candidate. The reporter is here on an assignment.

  20. What Does Understood The Assignment Mean?

    Flirting or expressing interest: In some cases, guys may use "understood the assignment" as a flirty hint or a way to express their interest in someone. It can be a playful way of showing admiration and attraction. Different tone or delivery: While the overall meaning is similar, guys may have a different tone or delivery when using ...

  21. Understood the Assignment Meaning: What Does the Phrase Mean?

    The phrase "understood the assignment" originated from the American rapper Tay Money's song "The Assignment," which was released in 2021. In the song, Tay Money raps, "Tay, you killed this. I understood the assignment.". The phrase quickly caught on and became a popular way to express praise or criticism in slang.

  22. Assignments

    Assignment meaning is the tasks given to students by their teachers and tutors to complete in a defined time. They can also be referred to as the work given to someone as a part of learning. Assignments can be in the form of written, practical, art or fieldwork, or even online. Their purpose is to ensure that students understand the subject ...

  23. The Assignment with Audie Cornish

    The Assignment with Audie Cornish Every Monday on The Assignment, host Audie Cornish explores the animating forces of American politics. It's not about the horserace, it's about the larger ...

  24. assignment noun

    1 [countable, uncountable] a task or piece of work that someone is given to do, usually as part of their job or studies You will need to complete three written assignments per semester. She is in Greece on an assignment for one of the Sunday newspapers. one of our reporters on assignment in China I had given myself a tough assignment. a business/special assignment

  25. What Is Arbitrage? How Does It Work?

    Arbitrage means taking advantage of price differences across markets to make a buck. If a currency, commodity or security—or even a rare pair of sneakers—is priced differently in two separate ...

  26. User assignment to a workflow task from a differen...

    How is the task assignment possible to a different user group if no users are present in the group identified through the Approval Matrix ? (The object type referred to here is Audit Schedule, X is the group identified through Approval matrix and has no users, the task got assigned to the users of the group Y.

  27. The Best D&D Classes For Combat, Ranked

    Many say traditional Dungeons & Dragons gameplay has three main pillars: combat, exploration, and roleplaying. Of these, combat has the most concrete mechanics attached to it. As such, many players gravitate toward it. It's also one of the easiest metrics to rank classes on, with some classes excelling in this arena and others struggling a bit.

  28. Lesson plan: History of Juneteenth and why it became a national ...

    The day now known as Juneteenth was formally recognized as a national holiday in 2021, due in large part to the activism of retired teacher Opal Lee.

  29. Assignment: Decolonising Russia

    In "Assignment: Decolonising Russia" Tim Whewell dissects a new and vital controversy with the help of historians, policy makers and activists in the former Soviet Union, the West and the ...

  30. The effect of an online acceptance and commitment intervention on the

    Hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is a highly invasive and life-threatening treatment for hematological neoplasms and some types of cancer that can challenge the patient's meaning structures. Restoring meaning (i.e., building more flexible and significant explanations of the disease and treatment burden) can be aided by strengthening psychological flexibility by means of an Acceptance ...