undertake

The word “undertake” means to take on a task or responsibility and commit to completing it. In plain terms, to agree to take on a job, project, or commitment.

“Undertake” is pronounced uhn-duh-TAYK (/ˌʌndɚˈteɪk/ in IPA).

Here is “undertake” used in a sentence: “The city undertook a major renovation of the old harbor.”

“Undertake” is a verb.

The word “undertake” comes from Middle English. From Middle English undertaken, from under- plus take.

“Undertake” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

“Undertake” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to take on a task or responsibility and commit to completing it.

Undertake means to actively take on a task or responsibility by choice, such as undertaking a renovation. Undergo means to experience or go through something, often passively, such as undergoing a review. Undertake implies agency and commitment; undergo does not.

Both can involve committing to do something, but undertake often carries a more formal or official tone, as in a business or legal context, while promise is used in everyday personal commitments. Undertake also covers taking on tasks generally, not only making verbal commitments.

Undertake tends to appear in more formal or professional contexts, such as undertaking an investigation, a project, or a legal obligation, rather than in casual conversation. In everyday speech people are more likely to say 'take on' or 'agree to' instead.