B2

automate routine tasks

To use machines or software to perform repetitive jobs that were previously done by people.

writing-task-2speakingTechnologyWork and economy

IELTS use

Useful for discussing the impact of technology on employment, efficiency, and working conditions in IELTS Writing Task 2 and Speaking.

Examples

  1. Many companies automate routine tasks to reduce human error and cut labour costs.
  2. While automation can boost productivity, it may leave workers who are not trained for new roles behind.
  3. The government is concerned that efforts to automate routine tasks in factories will lead to job losses.
  4. In my country, banks have started to automate routine tasks such as processing deposits, which has changed the role of tellers.

Collocations

fully automate
The factory was fully automated, with robots handling almost every stage of production.
automate processes
The firm introduced software to automate processes that were previously done by hand.
routine tasks
Employees were relieved that the new system could handle routine tasks such as data entry.
automation technology
Investment in automation technology has accelerated since the pandemic.
automation of jobs
The automation of jobs in manufacturing has been slower than predicted.

Word family

Noun
automation
Verb
automate
Adjective
automated
Adverb
automatically

Paraphrases

  • computerise repetitive work: A more specific synonym when referring to using digital systems.
  • hand over repetitive activities to machines: A descriptive paraphrase useful in explanations.
  • replace human input in routine operations: Useful when discussing workforce changes.

Common mistakes

  • automate routine tasks in order to more efficient to automate routine tasks in order to increase efficiency. After 'in order to', use a base verb, not an adjective.
  • automate the routine tasks to automate routine tasks. No definite article is needed when referring to tasks in general.
  • automate routine tasks by humans to automate routine tasks that were previously done by humans. The phrase 'by humans' modifies the tasks, so it needs a relative clause or participle.

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