take on a project

USAGE SUMMARY

"take on a project" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to someone accepting responsibility for a task or job. For example, "Amanda decided to take on the project of cataloging the library's books."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

How does one choose to take on a project that will take a big chunk of a career to start yielding data?

Science Magazine

If you say you're going to take on a project, then you're all in.

The New York Times

"I'm not willing to take on a project without some kind of moral theme," he said.

The New York Times - Arts

Go to your boss, Ms. Canter said, and volunteer to take on a project.

The New York Times

But, he said, Hollywood was loath to take on a project with a dwarf as the main character.

The New York Times

That was fine with Dr. Kulla, who was ready to take on a project, with the help of a cousin who is a contractor.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

The actor said he only reads through an entire script once before taking on a project.

The Guardian - Film

The Giants knew they were taking on a project when they drafted Dixon.

The New York Times - Sports

In 1999, Dr. Wimmer, backed by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, took on a project he believed could have proactive consequences should viruses come into vogue as bioweapons.

The New York Times

Gore did, however, make a major exception to this rule by taking on a project to streamline the federal government — a task that Kerry told me made Gore less available to lobby his old friends in the Senate.

The New Yorker

And with "The BQE," Mr. Stevens took on a project that surpassed anything he had ever done in scope and ambition, with an accompanying film that he directed after spending weeks driving and walking up and down the highway.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "take on a project", ensure the context clearly indicates that the subject is willingly accepting the responsibility and workload associated with the project.

Common error

Avoid using "take on a project" when you're already overburdened. Assess your capacity before committing to new responsibilities to prevent burnout and ensure quality work.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take on a project" functions as a verb phrase indicating the acceptance of responsibility for a task or undertaking. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "take on a project" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase that indicates accepting responsibility for a task or undertaking. As Ludwig confirms, it is suitable for various contexts, particularly in news and media, as well as in scientific and professional settings. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clearly conveys willingness and commitment. Consider alternatives like "undertake a project" or "embark on a project" for slight variations in meaning. Be mindful of overcommitting and assess your capacity before agreeing to new projects.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

undertake a project

Replaces "take on" with "undertake", which is a more formal synonym.

embark on a project

Similar to "undertake", but implies a more significant or adventurous undertaking.

commit to a project

Focuses on the commitment aspect of starting a project.

assume responsibility for a project

Highlights the responsibility involved in managing a project.

tackle a project

Implies dealing with a challenging project.

handle a project

Focuses on the management aspect of the project.

manage a project

Emphasizes the organizational and leadership aspects.

lead a project

Highlights the leadership role in the project.

initiate a project

Focuses on the starting or beginning of a project.

pursue a project

Implies actively working towards the completion of the project.

FAQs

What does "take on a project" mean?

To "take on a project" means to accept the responsibility of starting, managing, and completing a specific task or undertaking, often involving significant effort and commitment.

How can I use "take on a project" in a sentence?

You might say, "She decided to "take on a project" to improve the company's marketing strategy", or "The team was eager to "take on a project" that would challenge their skills."

What are some alternatives to "take on a project"?

You can use alternatives like "undertake a project", "embark on a project", or "commit to a project" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "take on a project" or "manage a project"?

The choice depends on the context. "Take on a project" emphasizes accepting responsibility, while "manage a project" focuses on overseeing and coordinating its execution. They aren't interchangeable in all cases. If you only are accepting responsibility for it and may not be managing it, it's better to "take on a project".