When you undertake a task or challenge, you attempt to accomplish it. If you want to undertake a verbal challenge right now, try saying “sushi chef” ten times quickly without messing up.
Way back in the 13th century, undertake meant “seize” or “entrap.” Of course, the meaning has shifted significantly since then, and we hope you don’t feel entrapped when you decide to undertake a project. However, undertake does convey a level of commitment and involvement that’s somewhat stronger than the words try or attempt might suggest.
Certainly, @Tristan! Let’s break down the word “undertake” and delve into its various meanings, usage in both formal and informal settings, and some interesting facts about its etymology.
Formal: “He undertook to finish the report by Monday.”
Informal: “I’ll undertake to call you tomorrow.”
To begin, start a task or project:
Formal: “She has undertaken to organize the annual conference.”
Informal: “I’ve decided to undertake learning Spanish.”
In historical contexts, it referred to ‘seize’ or ‘entrap’:
This meaning has shifted over time and is rarely used in modern English.
Idiomatic Expressions:
“An enormous undertaking”: Refers to a very large and challenging project or task.
Example: “Building a new school from scratch is an enormous undertaking.”
“Hazardous undertaking”: Refers to a very risky or dangerous task.
Example: “Climbing Mount Everest is a hazardous undertaking.”
Etymology:
Origin: The word “undertake” can be traced back to Middle English undertaken which meant “to overtake” or “to assume responsibility.” It is composed of the prefix under- meaning “in a lower position” and take. Originally, it was used more in the sense of “seize” or “entrap,” but over time its usage evolved to imply a sense of commitment and responsibility.
Tips for Remembering:
Visualization: Imagine “undertaking” a challenging climb up a mountain. Picture yourself starting the journey, committing to it, and then completing it. This visualization packs in all the elements of the word: beginning, commitment, and execution.
Association: Link “undertake” with tasks you’re familiar with. For instance, think of a significant project like organizing an event or a commitment to a friend. Practice saying “I will undertake this project.”
Example Sentences Using Undertake:
Formal: “The government will undertake a thorough review of the current health policies.”
Informal: “I’ll undertake fixing the fence this weekend.”
Historical: “In medieval times, a knight undertook to protect his liege lord’s lands and people.”
Phrases: “He is embarking on an enormous undertaking to renovate the old mansion.”
By regularly incorporating these usages into both written and spoken English, you can better understand and remember the different meanings and applications of “undertake.” Keep practicing, and soon it will become a natural part of your vocabulary!