B2verb2K

Undertake

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

Definition

to make yourself responsible for something and start doing it

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

Examples

  • 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.

Usage notes

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'.

Collocations

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

Synonyms

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

Antonyms

  • abandon
  • neglect
  • shirk

Common mistakes

  • 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'.