undertaking

Undertaking is a term with several related senses. It can refer to the act of undertaking a task or project, or to the task or project itself. It can also denote a formal promise or commitment to perform something, often of legal or contractual significance. In British English, undertaking may also describe the business of arranging and conducting funerals; here an undertaker is the professional who handles funeral arrangements.

Etymology and usage: The word derives from the phrase take upon oneself; "undertake" means to undertake or assume responsibility. The noun form emerged in Middle English to denote the thing one undertakes.

Legal and formal use: In law, an undertaking is a formal promise or assurance to a court, regulator, or other authority to perform a specified act or to refrain from it. It can be given by a party, counsel, or a company, and may be binding as a contractual or quasi-contractual obligation. Undertakings are common in settlements, bail conditions, regulatory compliance, and commercial agreements.

Usage notes: The word covers both everyday commitments and more formal obligations. The corresponding verb is undertake; the gerund form is undertaking. In ordinary speech, speakers often prefer "task," "project," or "commitment" over "undertaking," except in formal, legal, or professional contexts.