workload

Everyday

1. A workload is the amount of work a person or group has to do in a certain time. tree →
2. (computing) A workload is the amount of work a computer or machine has to do. tree →

In the lessons

In school and adult life people talk about a heavy or light workload: lots of homework, a busy job, too many tasks for teachers or nurses. It tells the reader whether someone is stressed or has time. Phrases: «a heavy workload», «reduce the workload», «share the workload», «a manageable workload».

Examples

• Our homework workload is much bigger this year. tree →
• Teachers have a heavy workload at report time. tree →
• We shared the workload so the project was fair. tree →
• Mum's workload doubled when her colleague left. tree →
• The new computer can handle a bigger workload. tree →
• A heavy workload can make people tired and stressed. tree →

Note

Usually countable but often used with «a» or «the»: a heavy workload. One word: workload, not «work load». Maths link: if a workload is shared equally, divide the total work by the number of people.