undertake

Undertake is a verb that means to commit oneself to beginning or taking on a task, responsibility, or project. It is transitive and can take a direct object, as in “undertake a project,” “undertake a journey,” or “undertake duties.” It can also be followed by an infinitive clause to express a promise or obligation, as in “undertake to do something.” In general, undertake suggests a deliberate, formal commitment beyond casual action.

Conjugation and usage notes: the verb forms are undertake (present), undertook (simple past), and undertaken (past participle). Examples: “The company undertook a comprehensive audit.” “She undertook to complete the work by Friday.” “The organization undertakes several educational programs.” The phrase “to undertake” often conveys formality and a sense of responsibility, and is common in business, legal, and official writing.

Noun form and related sense: as a noun, an undertaking refers to the task itself or a formal pledge or promise, such as “a financial undertaking” or “a legal undertaking.” It can also denote the act of undertaking or the scope of work involved.

Etymology and related terms: undertake comes from the combination of the prefix under- with take, historically signaling the act of taking on a responsibility or commitment. Related verbs include commit, assume, undertake, and pledge, with undertakings frequently appearing in formal or contractual contexts.