B2verb 2K

Undertake

🇬🇧 UK /["/ˌʌndəˈteɪk/","/ˌʌndəˈteɪks/","/ˌʌndəˈtʊk/","/ˌʌndəˈteɪkən/","/ˌʌndəˈteɪkɪŋ/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ˌʌndərˈteɪk/","/ˌʌndərˈteɪks/","/ˌʌndərˈtʊk/","/ˌʌndərˈteɪkən/","/ˌʌndərˈteɪkɪŋ/"]/

Meaning of Undertake

to make yourself responsible for something and start doing it

In simple words: To take on a task or responsibility.

Undertake in a sentence

• to **undertake a task/project**
• University professors both teach and **undertake research**.
• The company has announced that it will undertake a full investigation into the accident.
• The directors of the company refused to undertake such a risky venture.
• The research initiative is being undertaken by a group of environmentalists.
• They have undertaken a reappraisal of students' needs.
• He undertook to finish the job by Friday.

How to use Undertake

Use 'undertake' for formal or serious tasks. Avoid using it in casual conversations. It’s more common in academic or professional contexts.

Grammar pattern

undertake + object

Memory hint

Think of 'under-take' as 'taking responsibility under pressure'.

Related words

Collocations with Undertake

• undertake a project
• undertake research
• undertake responsibilities
• undertake an assignment
• undertake a task

Synonyms for Undertake

• take on
• accept
• commit to
• embark on
• initiate

Opposites of Undertake

• abandon
• neglect
• shirk

Common mistakes with Undertake

• Confusing with 'take on' — they are similar but context differs.
• Using 'undertake' without an object — remember to specify what is being undertaken.
• Incorrect verb forms like 'undertaked' instead of 'undertook' or 'undertaken'.

Frequently asked questions about Undertake

What does Undertake mean?

To take on a task or responsibility.

What is the definition of Undertake?

to make yourself responsible for something and start doing it

How do you use Undertake in a sentence?

to **undertake a task/project**

Can you give another example of Undertake?

University professors both teach and **undertake research**.

What are synonyms for Undertake?

Common alternatives include take on, accept, commit to, embark on, initiate.

What is the opposite of Undertake?

Opposite meanings include abandon, neglect, shirk.

What words go with Undertake?

It commonly pairs with undertake a project, undertake research, undertake responsibilities, undertake an assignment, undertake a task.

What are common mistakes when using Undertake?

Confusing with 'take on' — they are similar but context differs. Using 'undertake' without an object — remember to specify what is being undertaken. Incorrect verb forms like 'undertaked' instead of 'undertook' or 'undertaken'.

How do you pronounce Undertake?

US: /["/ˌʌndərˈteɪk/","/ˌʌndərˈteɪks/","/ˌʌndərˈtʊk/","/ˌʌndərˈteɪkən/","/ˌʌndərˈteɪkɪŋ/"]/, UK: /["/ˌʌndəˈteɪk/","/ˌʌndəˈteɪks/","/ˌʌndəˈtʊk/","/ˌʌndəˈteɪkən/","/ˌʌndəˈteɪkɪŋ/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Undertake?

Use 'undertake' for formal or serious tasks. Avoid using it in casual conversations. It’s more common in academic or professional contexts.

What CEFR level is Undertake?

"Undertake" is at B2 level on the CEFR scale.