Project Management Terminology

noun the ability to move quickly and easily

adjective agile

• The athlete's agility on the field was truly impressive.
• She showed off her agility by effortlessly dodging the obstacles.
• Dang, that dude's got some serious agility skills!
• In order to navigate through the complexities of the project, one must possess mental agility.

noun a state of readiness or preparedness

adjective ready or prepared

• After double-checking my schedule, I can confirm that I am all set for the meeting tomorrow.
• Don't worry, I've got everything ready and I'm all set to go.
• I just need to grab my stuff and then I'll be all set to bounce.
• With my goals clearly defined, I feel like I'm all set to conquer the world.

verb to give permission for something to happen or to take place

preposition to make room or provide an opportunity for something

• The new regulations allow for greater flexibility in project planning.
• The new rules allow for more options when it comes to planning projects.
• The updated guidelines allow for more wiggle room in project planning.
• The revised policies allow for thinking outside the box in project management.

adverb immediately or without delay

preposition used to indicate simultaneous action or occurrence

• The manager requested all employees to submit their reports at once.
• Can you please hand me the remote at once?
• Let's bounce from this party at once.
• The sudden news hit them like a ton of bricks, causing them to react at once.

noun the rear part of a stove used for keeping food warm

• The project has been put on the back burner until further notice.
• Let's put that idea on the back burner for now and focus on more pressing matters.
• We can just stick that plan on the back burner for now.
• Her dreams of becoming an artist were put on the back burner when she had to focus on her studies.

noun an accumulation of uncompleted work or matters awaiting attention or settlement

• The company is struggling to keep up with the backlog of orders due to supply chain issues.
• I have a huge backlog of emails to respond to, I really need to catch up.
• I can't go out tonight, I have a massive backlog of homework to finish.
• The backlog of unresolved issues in their relationship eventually led to a breakup.

verb A verb is a word that expresses an action or a state of being. In this case, 'bring to pass' is a verb phrase that means to cause something to happen or to be accomplished.

• The project manager was able to bring to pass the completion of the construction ahead of schedule.
• I never thought she would actually bring to pass her plan to start her own business.
• He's always talking about his big ideas, but never actually brings any of them to pass.
• With determination and hard work, she was able to bring to pass her dream of becoming a published author.

noun a person or thing that carries through a task or action

verb to complete or follow through with a task or action

• It is important to carry through with your commitments in a professional setting.
• I always make sure to carry through on my promises to my friends.
• I'll definitely carry through with my plan to go to the concert next weekend.
• She was determined to carry through with her goal of running a marathon.

noun a list of items to be checked or consulted

adjective pertaining to or being a checklist

• Before starting the project, make sure to review the checklist to ensure all tasks are accounted for.
• Hey, don't forget to go over the checklist before we get started.
• Yo, we gotta run through the checklist real quick before we dive in.
• Using a checklist is like having a map to guide you through the project.

noun the act of bringing something to an end or completion

adjective final or last in a series

• The closing of the deal was scheduled for next Friday.
• We're almost done, just a few more things to wrap up before closing.
• Let's hurry up and finish this so we can get to the closing party.
• The closing of one chapter in my life led to the opening of a new and exciting one.

noun the organization of the different elements of a complex body or activity so as to enable them to work together effectively

adjective relating to the organization of the different elements of a complex body or activity

• Effective coordination among team members is essential for project success.
• Let's make sure our coordination is on point to get this done.
• Our coordination skills are gonna be lit for this event.
• The dancers moved in perfect coordination, like a well-oiled machine.

noun The end result is the final outcome or conclusion of a process or event.

• The end result of the research project was a groundbreaking discovery.
• In the end, the result of the experiment was pretty cool.
• The party was a blast, and the end result was a night to remember.
• Just like a puzzle, each decision we make contributes to the end result of our lives.

adjective characterized by promptness and efficiency; speedy

• The expeditious handling of paperwork is crucial for efficient business operations.
• If we want to catch the movie on time, we need to be expeditious in getting ready.
• Let's be quick and expeditious about finishing our homework so we can go out later.
• His expeditious decision-making skills were like a well-oiled machine, always moving forward without hesitation.

adjective capable of being done, accomplished, or carried out

• After conducting a thorough analysis, we have determined that the proposed solution is indeed feasible.
• I think it's totally feasible for us to finish this project by the end of the week.
• Yeah, that plan sounds doable, it's definitely feasible.
• Achieving your dreams may seem daunting, but with determination, it is feasible to reach your goals.

noun a series of short, irregular bursts of activity or progress

• The project progressed in fits and starts due to various delays in funding.
• She's been working on her novel in fits and starts, but she's determined to finish it.
• I've been trying to get in shape, but it's been happening in fits and starts.
• Their relationship moved forward in fits and starts, with moments of intense passion followed by periods of distance.

noun the state or action of producing or developing something to completion; realization or fulfillment of a plan or project

• After years of hard work, the project finally came to fruition.
• We finally made it happen after putting in so much effort.
• We totally nailed it after all that hustle.
• The seeds of their labor finally blossomed into full fruition.

noun the extent or range of something

adjective complete or comprehensive

• The project manager presented a detailed plan outlining the full scope of the project.
• I finally understand the full scope of what needs to be done for this assignment.
• I had no idea the full scope of the situation until I talked to him.
• Her knowledge of history is so vast, it's like she has the full scope of all events in her mind.

adjective Describing the quality of something as satisfactory or acceptable.

adverb Modifying a verb, adjective, or other adverb to indicate that something is done to a satisfactory or acceptable degree.

• The quality of the product was good enough for us to proceed with the partnership.
• I think my presentation was good enough to impress the clients.
• Her excuse wasn't good enough for skipping the meeting.
• Sometimes good enough is better than perfect in certain situations.

adjective characterized by lack of order or planning, irregularity

adverb in a manner lacking any obvious principle of organization

• The books on the shelf were haphazardly arranged, making it difficult to find a specific title.
• She threw her clothes haphazardly into her suitcase before rushing out the door.
• The kids were running around the playground haphazardly, almost bumping into each other.
• His thoughts were all over the place, scattered haphazardly like puzzle pieces waiting to be put together.

noun a tool, utensil, or other piece of equipment that is used for a particular purpose

verb to put a decision, plan, agreement, etc. into effect

• The company plans to implement a new software system to improve efficiency.
• Let's implement a new schedule for our team meetings.
• We need to implement some changes to spice things up around here.
• She decided to implement a new workout routine to get in shape.

adjective Initially can also be used as an adjective to describe something that is related to the beginning or first stage of something.

adverb Initially is an adverb that is used to describe something that happens at the beginning or at first.

• Initially, the project seemed promising but encountered numerous setbacks along the way.
• I was initially excited about the party, but now I'm not so sure.
• I was like, 'No way!' when I initially heard the news.
• The seedling initially struggled to grow, but eventually flourished into a beautiful flower.

noun A singular form of the word 'lice', which refers to a small, wingless insect that infests the hair or skin of humans and animals.

verb To mess up or ruin something, to make a mistake or error that causes problems or failure.

• The new employee managed to louse up the presentation with incorrect data.
• I really hope I don't louse up my interview tomorrow.
• Don't worry, you won't louse it up. Just be yourself.
• His bad decisions really loused up the company's chances for success.

noun a person or thing that is considered less important or urgent

adjective having a status or level of importance that is not high or urgent

• The maintenance of the park is considered a low priority for the city council.
• Fixing the leaky faucet is a low priority right now, we have other things to take care of first.
• Cleaning my room is a low priority for me, I'd rather hang out with my friends.
• In the grand scheme of things, his opinion is of low priority compared to the experts in the field.

adjective describing a quality or characteristic of a manager or management

• The managerial team is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the company.
• The boss and the managerial staff are meeting to discuss the upcoming project.
• The higher-ups are always talking about the managerial decisions being made.
• His managerial skills are like a well-oiled machine, keeping everything running smoothly.

noun meanwhile can also be used as a noun to refer to the intervening time

adverb meanwhile is an adverb that indicates something is happening at the same time as something else

conjunction meanwhile can function as a conjunction to connect two events happening simultaneously

• Meanwhile, the company's profits continued to rise steadily.
• Meanwhile, I'll be finishing up this report for the meeting.
• Meanwhile, I was just chilling with my friends.
• Meanwhile, the seeds of doubt were beginning to sprout in her mind.

verb to combine or blend two or more things together to form a single entity

• The two companies decided to merge in order to increase their market share.
• I heard that the two big companies are going to merge soon.
• Did you hear about that new startup that's gonna merge with another one?
• The colors of the sunset seemed to merge together in a beautiful display.

noun a significant event or stage in the development of something

• The completion of this project marks a significant milestone in our company's history.
• Reaching this milestone is a big deal for us.
• Hitting this milestone is a game-changer.
• Crossing this milestone feels like reaching the peak of a mountain.

noun a unit of time that is approximately 30 days

verb none

adjective none

adverb none

pronoun none

preposition none

conjunction none

interjection none

article none

• The project is scheduled to be completed next month.
• Let's plan a get-together sometime next month.
• I'm broke this month, so I can't go out.
• She felt like she aged a year in just one month.

adjective describing something that does not produce or achieve much; unproductive

• The nonproductive meeting lasted for hours without any concrete decisions being made.
• I find it nonproductive to argue with someone who refuses to listen to reason.
• Stop wasting time on nonproductive activities and focus on what really matters.
• Her nonproductive mindset was like a roadblock preventing her from reaching her goals.

adjective continuing without interruption or change; lasting indefinitely

• The ongoing investigation into the company's financial records is expected to take several more weeks.
• The ongoing project at work is really starting to drag on.
• I can't believe the ongoing drama between those two coworkers.
• The ongoing battle for equality continues to be fought on multiple fronts.

noun an estimate or judgment that is too high

verb to estimate or judge something as greater than it actually is

• It is important not to overestimate the impact of this new policy.
• Don't overestimate how much fun we'll have at the party.
• You're really overestimating how easy it is to fix a car.
• She tends to overestimate her own abilities and ends up disappointed.

noun a place where one has a view from above

verb to fail to notice or consider something

• It is important not to overlook any details when conducting a thorough investigation.
• Don't overlook the small print in the contract before signing it.
• I can't believe you overlooked that juicy piece of gossip!
• Sometimes we tend to overlook the beauty in simplicity.

adverb previously is an adverb that describes an action or event that occurred before the current time or situation

• The previously mentioned research study has been widely acclaimed in academic circles.
• I heard that you previously worked at that company before.
• She was dating that guy, but they previously broke up.
• The clouds previously obscured the sun, but now it's shining brightly.

noun a planned piece of work that is designed to achieve a particular aim

verb to estimate or forecast something on the basis of present trends or data

• The board approved the new project proposal.
• We're starting a new project next week.
• Let's get this project show on the road!
• Life is like a project with many moving parts.

noun a physical action of moving something in a forward direction

verb to exert force on something in order to move it forward

• In order to achieve our goals, we must continue to push forward with determination and focus.
• Hey, let's push forward and finish this project before the deadline!
• Come on, don't give up now, we gotta push forward and get through this!
• Despite facing many obstacles, she found the strength to push forward and overcome the challenges in her way.

noun a review or contemplation of things in the past

adjective looking back on or dealing with past events or situations

• The company conducted a retrospective analysis of their financial performance over the past year.
• Let's do a retrospective on all the movies we watched last month.
• I'm feeling nostalgic, let's have a retrospective of our high school days.
• Looking back on his life, he had a retrospective view of all the decisions he had made.

verb to begin or start doing something

adverb used to describe how something is done or the manner in which something is started

• The team set about analyzing the data to identify any patterns.
• We set about cleaning the house before our guests arrived.
• Let's set about getting this party started!
• After receiving the news, she set about rebuilding her life from scratch.

noun a loose part of a rope or fabric

verb to loosen or make less tight

adjective not taut or held tightly in position; loose

• The team needs to pick up the slack in order to meet the project deadline.
• Don't slack off on your homework, make sure to get it done.
• Stop slacking and get to work!
• His mind was in a slack state, unable to focus on the task at hand.

noun a person who acts or does something before a particular time or event

adverb comparative form of soon, indicating something happening earlier or in a shorter amount of time

• It is advisable to submit your report sooner rather than later.
• I should probably finish my homework sooner so I don't have to rush later.
• I need to start working out sooner if I want to get in shape for summer.
• The sooner you plant the seeds, the sooner you will see the flowers bloom.

noun a specific date set as a goal or deadline for completing a task or project

• The project manager set a target date for completing the construction of the new office building.
• We need to have everything ready by the target date next week.
• Let's aim to finish this by the target date to avoid any delays.
• Reaching our goals by the target date is like hitting a bullseye in archery.

noun a piece of work to be done or undertaken

verb to assign a task to someone

• The task at hand requires meticulous attention to detail.
• I have a big task to complete by the end of the day.
• I'll handle this task like a boss.
• Sometimes life throws us difficult tasks to overcome.

adjective describing something that is done or occurring at a suitable or opportune time

• It is crucial to submit your report in a timely manner to meet the deadline.
• Make sure you reply to the email in a timely fashion.
• I need you to show up at the party at a timely hour.
• Her timely intervention saved the project from failure.

verb to commit to and begin (an enterprise or responsibility); take on

• The company will undertake a thorough analysis before making any decisions.
• I'm not sure if I want to undertake this project, it seems like a lot of work.
• I don't think I have the guts to undertake such a risky venture.
• She decided to undertake the challenge of climbing Mount Everest.

verb a word that expresses an action or state of being

• The project was successfully undertaken by the team of experts.
• They've finally undertaken the task we've been putting off for weeks.
• I can't believe he actually undertook that dare, what a legend!
• She undertook the challenge of starting her own business with determination and passion.

adjective not capable of being carried out or put into practice; not feasible

• The proposed project timeline is unfeasible given the limited resources available.
• It's unfeasible to finish all this work by the end of the week.
• Trying to juggle all these tasks at once is totally unfeasible.
• Dreaming of becoming a millionaire overnight is unfeasible without putting in the hard work.

noun a long and complicated dispute or argument

verb to have a long and complicated dispute or argument

• The lawyers had to wrangle over the contract terms before reaching an agreement.
• I had to wrangle with the customer service representative to get a refund.
• I had to wrangle with my siblings to decide who gets the last slice of pizza.
• She had to wrangle with her emotions before making a difficult decision.

noun a technique used in project management to allocate a fixed amount of time to complete a task or project

• Timeboxing is a project management technique where a fixed amount of time is allocated to complete a task or project.
• I'm going to try timeboxing my study sessions to see if it helps me stay focused.
• Timeboxing my chores really helps me get things done efficiently.
• In life, we are all timeboxing our priorities to make sure we focus on what truly matters.

noun a graphical representation of a period of time, typically on a line

• The project manager presented a detailed timeline outlining the milestones for the next quarter.
• Can you give me a rough timeline of when you think the project will be completed?
• I need to get my timeline together before the deadline hits.
• Life doesn't always follow a linear timeline, sometimes things happen unexpectedly.

noun a person who seeks to complete all tasks or achievements in a particular activity or game

adjective relating to or characteristic of a completionist

• The completionist aims to achieve 100% completion in every aspect of the game.
• My friend is a completionist, he won't stop until he collects every single item in the game.
• Being a completionist is no joke, it takes serious dedication to finish everything in a game.
• In life, being a completionist means striving for perfection in every task you undertake.

verb to schedule or plan according to a calendar

• It is important to calendarize all important events and deadlines for the upcoming year.
• Don't forget to calendarize your friend's birthday so you don't miss it!
• I always calendarize my work schedule to stay organized.
• She likes to calendarize her goals and track her progress throughout the year.

noun A list of items that need to be completed or corrected, often in a construction or building project

• The project manager reviewed the punch list to ensure all tasks were completed.
• Hey, can you double check the punch list before we submit it?
• Let's wrap up this punch list so we can call it a day.
• Addressing each item on the punch list is like crossing off tasks on a to-do list.

noun a specific area of work within a larger project or organization

• The project manager is responsible for overseeing each workstream to ensure they are on track.
• Let's divide the project into different workstreams to make it more manageable.
• I'll be focusing on my own workstream and you can handle yours.
• Each department is like a different workstream flowing into the river of company success.

noun a word that represents a person, place, thing, or idea

verb a word used to describe an action, state, or occurrence

adverb a word or phrase that modifies or qualifies an adjective, verb, or other adverb

pronoun a word that can function by itself as a noun phrase and that refers either to the participants in the discourse (e.g., I, you) or to someone or something mentioned elsewhere in the discourse (e.g., she, it)

preposition a word governing, and usually preceding, a noun or pronoun and expressing a relation to another word or element in the clause

article a particular item or object, typically one of a specified type

• After a long day at work, coming home to a quiet house with a good book, that’s all I need.
• A hot cup of coffee and some good music playing, that’s all I need to relax.
• Just give me some Netflix and chill time, that’s all I need right now.
• A shoulder to lean on and a listening ear, that’s all I need to feel better.

noun acronym for 'Let Me Know'

• Please let me know (LMK) if you require any further information regarding the project.
• Hey, just LMK if you're coming to the party tonight.
• LMK if you wanna hang out later.
• She gave him a subtle look that said 'LMK' if you're interested.

noun a minimum or starting point used for comparison or measurement

• The baseline measurement was used as a reference point for future data analysis.
• Let's use last year's sales as a baseline to compare with this year's.
• I'm gonna set the baseline at zero and see how things go from there.
• In order to improve, we need to establish a new baseline for our performance.

noun a noun is a word that refers to a person, place, thing, event, substance, or quality

adjective an adjective is a word that describes or modifies a noun or pronoun

preposition a preposition is a word that shows the relationship between a noun (or pronoun) and other words in a sentence

• The research project is still a work in progress and will require more time to complete.
• My painting is a work in progress, I'm still adding details to it.
• My new website design is a work in progress, but it's coming along nicely.
• Rebuilding trust in a relationship is like a delicate work in progress that requires patience and effort.

noun A point at which something comes to an end abruptly or forcefully

adjective Difficult or requiring a great deal of effort

• The meeting has a hard stop at 4:00 PM, so please make sure to wrap up discussions on time.
• We need to finish the project by Friday, it's a hard stop.
• If we don't leave now, we'll miss the movie - it's a hard stop.
• His dedication to his work is a hard stop for anyone trying to match his level of commitment.

noun a word that represents a person, place, thing, or idea

verb a word that expresses an action or state of being

adjective a word that describes or modifies a noun or pronoun

adverb a word that modifies or describes a verb, adjective, or another adverb

pronoun a word that can function by itself as a noun phrase and that refers either to the participants in the discourse (e.g., I, you) or to someone or something mentioned elsewhere in the discourse (e.g., she, it, this)

preposition a word that shows the relationship between a noun (or pronoun) and other words in a sentence

conjunction a word used to connect clauses or sentences or to coordinate words in the same clause

article a word that is used to limit a noun, either definite (the) or indefinite (a/an)

• Before we move on to the next topic, let's put a pin in it and revisit this issue later.
• Let's just put a pin in it for now and come back to it when we have more time.
• Hey, let's put a pin in it and grab some lunch before we continue.
• When emotions run high, sometimes it's best to put a pin in it and revisit the conversation when everyone has calmed down.

noun a word that represents a person, place, thing, or idea

verb a word that expresses an action, occurrence, or state of being

preposition a word that shows the relationship between a noun (or pronoun) and other words in a sentence

article a word that specifies a noun as definite or indefinite

• It is important to keep a handle on the company's finances to ensure stability and growth.
• I need to keep a handle on my spending if I want to save up for that vacation.
• I gotta keep a handle on my grades if I want to pass this class.
• She struggled to keep a handle on her emotions during the difficult time.

noun a term used in project management to describe the roles and responsibilities of individuals in a project

• The RACI matrix is a valuable tool for clarifying roles and responsibilities within a project team.
• Make sure everyone knows their RACI in the upcoming project.
• I'll take the lead on this one, you can just be a RACI.
• In the game of project management, knowing your RACI can be the key to success.

noun a word (other than a pronoun) used to identify any of a class of people, places, or things

verb a word used to describe an action, state, or occurrence

preposition a word governing, and usually preceding, a noun or pronoun and expressing a relation to another word or element in the clause

• Managing a large project with multiple stakeholders can feel like herding cats.
• Trying to get everyone to agree on a restaurant for dinner is like herding cats.
• Organizing a group of teenagers is like herding cats.
• Getting my family ready for a vacation is always like herding cats.

noun a line made up of a series of dots or small dashes

adjective describing the type of line as having dots

• Please sign your name on the dotted line to indicate your agreement.
• Just put your signature on the dotted line, and we're good to go.
• Hey, just scribble your name on the dotted line and we're all set.
• The project's success is just beyond the dotted line of completion.

noun A list of tasks or activities that need to be done

adjective Relating to tasks or activities that need to be done

• I have a long list of tasks on my to-do list that need to be completed by the end of the week.
• I've got a bunch of stuff on my to-do list that I need to get done ASAP.
• I've got a million things on my to-do list that I need to knock out today.
• His to-do list was like a mountain, seemingly impossible to conquer.

noun a word that represents a person, place, thing, or idea

verb a word that expresses an action, occurrence, or state of being

adverb a word that modifies a verb, adjective, or other adverb, indicating time, place, manner, degree, etc.

preposition a word that shows the relationship between a noun (or pronoun) and other words in a sentence

• Despite our best efforts, the project did not go to plan.
• Well, it looks like our weekend getaway didn't go to plan.
• Man, that party last night really didn't go to plan.
• Sometimes in life, things just don't go to plan no matter how hard we try.

noun EVM stands for Electronic Voting Machine, a device used for casting votes in elections.

• The Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) is used in elections to accurately record votes.
• Make sure you press the button on the EVM properly when voting.
• I heard they're using those fancy EVMs for the first time in our local elections.
• In the digital age, our minds can be seen as the EVMs processing information and making decisions.

noun A word that represents a person, place, thing, or idea. In this case, 'list' is a noun as it refers to a series of items or information.

adjective A word that describes or gives more information about a noun. In this case, 'long' is an adjective as it describes the noun 'list' by indicating that it is of considerable length.

• The project manager provided a long list of tasks that needed to be completed by the end of the week.
• I have a long list of errands to run this afternoon.
• My mom gave me a long list of chores to do before I can go out with my friends.
• His resume was a long list of impressive accomplishments.

noun a person who successfully completes or achieves something

verb not applicable

adjective not applicable

adverb not applicable

pronoun not applicable

preposition not applicable

conjunction not applicable

interjection not applicable

article not applicable

• The accomplished pianist is known as a great accomplisher in the music industry.
• She's a real accomplisher, always getting things done efficiently.
• That dude is a total accomplisher, he's always on top of his game.
• The artist painted with such skill and precision, he was like an accomplisher of dreams on canvas.

noun a person, place, thing, or idea

adverb modifies a verb, adjective, or another adverb to indicate time, manner, degree, or frequency

preposition shows the relationship between a noun (or pronoun) and other words in a sentence

• The project was completed according to plan, meeting all deadlines and requirements.
• The party went off without a hitch, everything went according to plan.
• We totally nailed it, everything happened just like we planned.
• Life doesn't always go according to plan, sometimes we have to adapt and make changes.

verb the action of carrying out or accomplishing something

• The committee is currently actioning the recommendations put forth in the report.
• I'll start actioning the tasks on my to-do list right away.
• Let's get actioning on this project and knock it out!
• By actioning your goals, you are taking steps towards achieving success.

noun a word that represents a person, place, thing, or idea

adjective a word that describes or modifies a noun or pronoun

• The actual time of arrival for the flight was delayed by two hours.
• I thought the movie started at 7, but the actual time is 7:30.
• I'll be there at 5, but you know my actual time is always closer to 5:30.
• She always seems to arrive at the party at the actual time when things start getting interesting.