Synonyms for

Undertake

Verb / ˈʌndɜ:ˌteɪk / Another word for undertake — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to begin or attempt to do (something)

Synonyms & similar words

setabout attempt takeincharge takeon guarantee tackle contract attempt try shoulder accept adopt tackle assume

Synonyms by register

Formal

commence initiate embark upon assume responsibility for

Informal

take on get started on tackle

Literary

venture essay attempt

Antonyms

avoid neglect shirk evade decline refuse abandon

Common collocations

  • undertake a task
  • undertake a project
  • undertake research
  • undertake a journey
  • undertake responsibility
  • undertake a study
  • undertake an investigation

Word family

noun undertaking
verb undertake

Usage note

Often used in formal contexts to describe starting or agreeing to do something important or difficult. Be mindful of its formal tone; 'take on' is a more common informal alternative.

Example sentences

  1. I will undertake the task of cleaning my room today.
  2. He decided to undertake the challenge of climbing the mountain.
  3. The company will undertake the construction of the new building.
  4. The government will undertake an investigation into the matter.
  5. She was hesitant to undertake the project without help.

Quotes

  • We should not undertake a journey if it is too late to finish it.
  • The only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven't found it yet, keep looking. Don't settle. As with all matters of the heart, you'll know when you find it.
  • Believe you can and you're halfway there.

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words