Words / C1

im-BAHK/ɪmˈbɑːk/

To embark on is to start a substantial project or journey: embark on a degree, embark on reforms. Start and begin are everyday; set out on is closer for journeys. Originally you embarked on a ship (still used), and embarkation is the travel noun. In speech, take on or start is enough — use it when the undertaking is large, not for making tea.

Meaning

To start a new project or journey (embark on).

Examples

• “She embarked on a year of full-time study.”
• “They embarked on a rewrite of the whole syllabus.”
• “She embarked on the trip with one backpack and a spare battery.”

Good to know

embark on a project/journey. Formal/written. Everyday: start / set out. Originally: board a ship.

Near in meaning

begin

New