Undertook work on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Undertook work on" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a project or task that someone has started or engaged in. Example: "She undertook work on the new marketing strategy to improve brand awareness."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

In 1944 she undertook work on radiation detection in the Division of War Research at Columbia University.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The site is famous for the remains of a gigantic vaulted hall, the Ṭāq Kisrā, which is traditionally regarded as the palace of the Sāsānian king Khosrow I (reigned ad 531 579), although Shāpūr I (reigned ad 241 272) also undertook work on the site.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Upon arriving in the Netherlands, Descartes undertook work on two sorts of topics.

SEP

Brassey undertook work on the section of the railway between Basingstoke and Winchester, and on other parts of the line.

Wikipedia

Not all the firm's work was on a large scale; as the major architectural practice in North West England they also undertook work on schools, vicarages, hospitals, factories, hotels, shops, railway stations, and war memorials.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

While one city agency may not undertake work on land controlled by another agency, private entities can and will.

The New York Times

Wilkins gained his doctorate in two years and was immediately absorbed into the Ministry of Home Security and Aircraft Production to undertake work on the improvement of radar screens.

The Guardian

Hot on the heels of the recent release of ASPRS LAS Specification 1.3 (mentioned earlier), the ASPRS Lidar Committee is now undertaking work on LAS 2.0.

University of California, Berkeley

He has also undertaken work on poverty dynamics, intrahousehold resource allocation, schooling, labour markets aid allocation and on improving survey methods.

Cornell University

"[Barristers in Merseyside] confirmed that they would not be prepared to undertake work on any case with a date on or after 1 July in recognition of the damage that these cuts will have upon the independent bar.

The Guardian

The new international agency is likely to involve broadening the remit of the the Paris-based OECD, which is already undertaking work on bribery and international tax rules, Sir Eric Pickles, Cameron's anti-corruption adviser, said.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "undertook work on", ensure it aligns with the tone and formality of your writing. In formal or professional contexts, it can add a touch of sophistication, but in informal settings, simpler alternatives like "started work on" may be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "undertook work on" in casual or informal writing. It can sound overly formal or pretentious. Opt for simpler phrases like "started working on" or "began work on" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "undertook work on" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the initiation or performance of a specific task or project. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

20%

Science

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

20%

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "undertook work on" is a grammatically correct way to describe the start or involvement in a task or project. According to Ludwig, it is usable in written English. While not extremely common, it finds its place in various contexts, including news, scientific writing, encyclopedias, and academic papers. While the phrase can be considered formal, Ludwig has indicated that its tone is more neutral. When choosing an alternative, consider the context and desired level of formality, as simpler options like "started work on" may be preferable in casual settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Started work on

"Started" is the most straightforward and informal alternative.

Began work on

"Began" is a simpler and more common synonym for "undertook".

Commenced work on

Similar in meaning, but uses "commenced", which is a slightly more formal way of saying "started".

Engaged in work on

"Engaged in" is a more descriptive and slightly more formal alternative.

Conducted work on

"Conducted" suggests a more systematic or organized approach to the work.

Initiated work on

"Initiated" implies a more formal and deliberate beginning.

Carried out work on

"Carried out" implies the execution or performance of a task.

Embarked on work related to

"Embarked on" suggests a more significant or adventurous undertaking.

Pursued work on

"Pursued" implies striving towards a goal through work.

Devoted effort to

Focuses on the effort and dedication involved in the work.

FAQs

What does "undertook work on" mean?

The phrase "undertook work on" means to have started or engaged in a specific task, project, or activity. It implies beginning to perform or execute something.

What are some alternatives to "undertook work on"?

You can use alternatives like "started work on", "began work on", or "commenced work on" depending on the context.

Is "undertook work on" formal or informal?

"Undertook work on" is generally considered a more formal phrase. Simpler alternatives are more suitable for informal contexts.

How can I use "undertook work on" in a sentence?

You can use "undertook work on" to describe someone starting a project or task, such as "The team undertook work on the new marketing campaign".