Üstleniyorlar

Üstleniyorlar is a Turkish verb form meaning “they are taking on” or “they are undertaking” a task, responsibility, or role. It is the present continuous (progressive) form of the verb üstlenmek, used with a third-person plural subject (onlar). The expression conveys that the subjects are currently accepting or assuming something to do or manage.

In usage, üstlenmek generally takes a direct object in the sense of a duty, task, responsibility, or project. Common collocations include üstlenmek görevı (to take on the duty), üstlenmek sorumluluk (to shoulder the responsibility), and üstlenmek projeyi (to undertake the project). Turkish speakers often specify what is being undertaken with noun phrases such as sorumluluğu, görevi, veya projeyi, typically in the accusative/genitive construction (e.g., sorumluluğu üstleniyorlar, projeyi üstleniyorlar).

Nuance and register: üstleniyorlar is neutral and widely used in formal and everyday language. It can appear in news reports, organizational statements, and personal statements about commitments or responsibilities. The verb emphasizes voluntary acceptance or uptake rather than mere involvement.

Related forms include üstlenmek (to undertake), üstleniş (the act of taking on), and üstlenmeye (to undertaking in an infinitive/gerund sense). The past tense would be üstlendiler (they undertook). The construction is productive in Turkish, allowing speakers to describe collective actions where groups commit to duties or tasks.

Examples:

- Sivil toplum kuruluşları bu projeyi üstleniyorlar. (Civil society organizations are taking on this project.)

- Yetkililer bu sorumluluğu üstleniyorlar. (The authorities are assuming this responsibility.)

- Şirketler yeni pazarı görmek için bu yükü üstleniyorlar. (The companies are undertaking this burden to enter the new market.)