upptaga

Upptaga is a Swedish verb with several related meanings centered on taking up, undertaking, or occupying. In contemporary Swedish it is used primarily in formal, administrative, or literary contexts. The principal sense is to undertake or assume something, such as a responsibility, task, or office. It can also mean to occupy a place, seat, or position, for example in a council or parliament. A more figurative use appears with absorbing or adopting an idea, belief, or practice, although in everyday language it is often replaced by ta på sig or överta.

Etymology: Upptaga derives from upp- (a prefix related to upwards or completion) and taga (to take). The prefix adds a sense of formality or completion. The word belongs to the traditional North Germanic vocabulary and appears in historical, legal, and academic Swedish.

Usage and tone: Upptaga is considered formal and somewhat literary today. It commonly occurs in official documents, historical narratives, and scholarly writing. In contemporary speech, speakers often choose more common synonyms for everyday use, while upptaga remains standard in contexts such as law or governance.

Examples: Att upptaga ansvaret means to undertake or assume the responsibility. Att upptaga en plats means to take up a seat or position, for example in a assembly or council.

See also: upptag, upptagning, ta på sig, överta.