WordGarden.ioundertake
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /ˌʌndətˈeɪk/
US
- /ˈəndərˌteɪk/
Meanings
Verb
to take on or begin doing a task, project, duty, or journey
to formally agree or accept responsibility to do something
Beyond the definition
Imagine a brave knight setting out on a quest: he undertakes it. To undertake something means to begin doing it, especially when it is important, difficult, or needs real effort. It is more than just starting; it also suggests that you accept the responsibility to finish it. You might undertake a new project at work, undertake repairs around the house, or undertake the challenge of running a marathon. In simple terms, it means taking on something seriously and seeing it through.
To undertake something is to begin doing it and accept responsibility for it, often when it is important, difficult, or likely to take time. It is more than simply "starting" because it usually suggests commitment as well. The word comes from older English roots meaning "to take upon oneself."
You might read about explorers who undertake dangerous expeditions into uncharted territories, or scientists who undertake complex research projects. Businesses undertake new ventures, and individuals undertake personal journeys of self-discovery. It's often used in formal contexts, like legal agreements ("We hereby undertake to fulfill the terms of this contract") or official announcements ("The government has undertaken a review of the education system").
However, it does not always have to describe something grand. You can also undertake smaller tasks, although the word still sounds more formal than "do" or "take care of." The key idea is that you are willingly accepting the task and committing yourself to finishing it.
Sometimes, "undertake" also means to guarantee or promise something, as in: "The company undertook to deliver the goods within a week." This usage emphasizes taking on a formal obligation.
So whether it's a daring adventure, a serious commitment, or a simple chore, undertake signifies stepping forward and accepting responsibility for seeing something through.
Examples
- 1
Independent project
She undertook the project on her own after her manager left.
- 2
Public repairs
The city has undertaken repairs on several old bridges.
- 3
Work capacity
We can't undertake any more work until next month.
- 4
Research study
The university is undertaking a study of children's reading habits.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Team responsibility
He was reluctant to undertake full responsibility for the team.
- 6
Contract promise
In the contract, the supplier undertook to replace any damaged parts within 48 hours.
- Patternundertake to do something
formally agree or promise to do it
See also
Forms and spellings
9 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- undertakeverb
Forms
- under-tookpast tenseverb
- under-taking-ing formverb
- under-takenpast participleverb
- under-takesverb
- undertakenpast participleverb
- undertaking-ing formverb
- undertookpast tenseverb
- undertakesverb