undertake

[uhn-der-teyk] / ˌʌn dərˈteɪk /

VERB

attempt, engage in

Synonyms

STRONGEST

begin commence guarantee initiate launch offer shoulder tackle try

STRONG

agree bargain commit contract covenant devote embark endeavor hazard move pledge promise stake stipulate venture volunteer

WEAK

address oneself answer for commit oneself enter upon fall into go about go for go in for go into have a hand in have a try make a run at pitch in set about set in motion set out take on take the plunge take upon oneself try out

Antonyms

STRONGEST

cease complete conclude deny end finish neglect refuse stop

STRONG

break disagree discourage stay

WEAK

abstain forego forget

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The WHO has advised DR Congo and Uganda, two countries with confirmed cases, to undertake cross-border screenings to avoid the virus from spreading.

From BBC • May 18, 2026

It might be similar to the institution-building in the first years of the Federal Republic of Germany, or what the new government of Hungary must now undertake.

From Salon • May 18, 2026

Mr. Warsh promised to undertake a major “data project” regarding inflation soon after taking office if confirmed.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 23, 2026

Last month, activist investor Irenic Capital Management, which has built an approximately 2.5% stake in Snap, urged the company’s leadership to undertake a series of measures aimed at improving its valuation.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 15, 2026

When General Gates had asked the committee to send him someone who would go behind British lines, Bryan had been picked as “the best qualified to undertake the hazardous enterprise.”

From "George Washington, Spymaster" by Thomas B. Allen

Vocabulary lists containing undertake

The Vocabulary.com Top 1000

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Franklin D. Roosevelt, "A Date That Will Live In Infamy" (1941)

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

The Mayflower Compact (1620)

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!