Take on

Meaning

The idiom "take on" means to assume or undertake a responsibility, role, or task. It can also mean to become involved in a situation or to face a challenge. The figurative meaning of the idiom is similar to its literal meaning, but with an added sense of taking charge and being proactive.

Usage

• Sarah decided to take on a leadership role in her team's project. She felt confident that she could handle the responsibility.
• John took on the challenge of raising money for his charity event, even though it was a daunting task.
• The company took on new clients during the pandemic, which required them to adapt to remote work and flexible schedules.
• Sarah decided to take on a hobby in painting, which she had always wanted to do but never found time for.
• The students took on the challenge of completing their assignments before the deadline, even though it meant sacrificing leisure time.

Roots and History

The idiom "take on" has been used in English since at least the 16th century. It comes from the Old French phrase "prendre sur," which means to pick up or begin doing something. The figurative meaning of the idiom likely developed over time as people began using it to describe taking charge of a situation or responsibility.

Synonyms in English

• Assume
• Undertake
• Take charge
• Be proactive
• Seize the day

Synonyms in other languages

• French: Prendre sur (literal)
• Spanish: Tomar (literal)
• German: Overnehmen (literal)
• Italian: Assumere (literal)
• Arabic: Alkhasa' (literal)

Similar Idioms

• chew the fat

• give a shot

• the squeaky wheel gets the grease