he took on

USAGE SUMMARY

"he took on" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used when someone has assumed a responsibility or task, either willingly or unwillingly. For example, "Unable to find anyone else to take on the project, he took on the responsibility himself."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

He took on one partner, then two.

The New York Times

Eventually, he took on the task of designing one himself.

Vice

He took on Japan.

The New York Times - Sports

He took on the transit union.

The New York Times

He took on part-time teaching jobs.

Princeton University

He took on his current post last year.

The New York Times - Sports

He took on my father, Richard.

The New York Times

Like when he took on Roger Goodell.

The Washington Post

Under Morsi, he took on the man.

The Guardian

He took on a group of partners.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

He took on-the-job training at nearby Hadlow College.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "he took on", ensure the context clearly indicates whether the subject is assuming a responsibility, confronting a challenge, or adopting a role. Clarity is key to effective communication.

Common error

Avoid using "he took on" when a simpler verb like "began" or "started" would suffice. "He took on" implies a significant undertaking or challenge, not merely an initiation.

Linguistic Context

"He took on" functions as a phrasal verb indicating the assumption of responsibility, engagement in a conflict, or adoption of a new role. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use in varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Academia

10%

Science

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"He took on" is a versatile phrasal verb widely used to indicate the assumption of responsibility, engagement in a challenge, or adoption of a role. As shown by Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and suitable for various writing contexts, with a neutral register. While most frequently found in news and media, its usage extends to academic and scientific writing. Remember to consider the context to ensure the phrase aligns with the intended meaning, implying a significant undertaking rather than a simple start. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and broad applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

he assumed

Focuses on the act of taking responsibility or control.

he undertook

Stresses the commencement of a task or project.

he confronted

Highlights direct engagement in a challenge or conflict.

he accepted

Highlights the acceptance of a responsibility or task.

he battled

Emphasizes a struggle or fight against an opponent or obstacle.

he shouldered

Implies carrying a burden or responsibility.

he embraced

Suggests willingly adopting a new role, challenge or identity.

he engaged in

Focuses on involvement or participation in something.

he commenced

Highlights the starting of a new task or project.

he launched into

Implies starting something with enthusiasm and energy.

FAQs

How can I use "he took on" in a sentence?

Use "he took on" to indicate that someone has assumed a responsibility, confronted a challenge, or adopted a new role. For example, "He took on the management of the project" or "He took on the challenge of reforming the company".

What's the difference between "he took on" and "he assumed"?

"He took on" often implies a challenge or extra responsibility, while "he assumed" simply means he took control or responsibility.

Are there formal alternatives to "he took on"?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "he undertook", "he assumed responsibility for", or "he accepted the challenge of".

Is "he took on" suitable for all types of writing?

Yes, "he took on" is generally suitable for various types of writing, from news articles and academic papers to informal communications, although more formal alternatives may be preferred in certain contexts.