Words / B2

und-uh-TAYK/ˌʌndəˈteɪk/

To undertake is to agree to take on a task or piece of work, often a serious or official one: undertake a project / a review / research, or undertake to + verb (promise to do). Take on is more informal; do not confuse it with undergo (experience a process). Undertaking is the noun (a task, or a formal promise).

Meaning

To agree to do a piece of work or a task.

Examples

• “She undertook a long research project.”
• “The department has undertaken a full review of the policy.”
• “He undertook to deliver the report by Monday.”

Good to know

undertake a task / to + verb. Formal take on. Contrast: undergo (experience). Noun: undertaking.

Near in meaning

take on

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