take on a role

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "take on a role" is correct and usable in written English.
It refers to the taking up or accepting of an assigned role or responsibility. For example: "John decided to take on a role as the lead designer on the team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They also say that he was forced by events to take on a role broader than the one originally envisioned.

The New York Times

There is a market out there for some ambitious Republican to take on a role similar to the one Jack Kemp played in the late 1970s.

Forbes

In his Paris Review interview with Hermione Lee, he explained the way a writer might take on a role subtly different than the one they played in real life.

Vice

He added that "you may still be emphasizing protecting the population in one area," while in more secure areas American forces might take on a role of supporting and advising Iraqi Army units.

The New Yorker

She has to decide whether she wants to take on a role in the public sector.

Harvard University

Mr Lasseter will also take on a role designing attractions for Disney's parks.

The Economist

"As a black American, when you leave the house, you take on a role.

The Guardian - Film

Aides denied a report that he would take on a role on Africa for the UN.

The Economist

In the meantime, he may take on a role in Mr. Warner's campaign.

The New York Times

"Now, would it have been preferable to take on a role that had not been created before?

The New York Times

I can only assume he took on the assignment like an actor would take on a role.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a transition of responsibility, use "take on a role" to clearly indicate the acceptance of new duties and functions. For example, "After the reorganization, she will "take on a role" in project management".

Common error

Avoid using "take on a role" interchangeably with phrases like "play a role". "Play a role" suggests participation, while "take on a role" implies assuming responsibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take on a role" functions as a phrasal verb followed by a noun phrase, indicating the assumption or acceptance of a specific duty or function. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, providing various examples demonstrating its versatility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

20%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Huffington Post

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "take on a role" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe the act of assuming new responsibilities or functions. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous examples across various contexts, from news and media to scientific and academic writing. It is generally considered neutral in register and can be used in both formal and informal settings. When using the phrase, be mindful to not confuse it with similar expressions and focus on the sense of assuming a new specific assignment or duty. Overall, "take on a role" is a versatile and reliable phrase to use in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

assume a responsibility

Focuses on the duty or obligation aspect, slightly more formal.

accept an assignment

Implies being given a task, emphasizing the act of receiving and agreeing.

undertake a task

Highlights the commencement of a project or duty, suggesting effort and commitment.

step into a position

Emphasizes the transition into a new job or function.

embrace a function

Suggests willingness and enthusiasm in adopting a duty.

shoulder a responsibility

Highlights bearing the weight of a duty.

be entrusted with a duty

Focuses on being given a task with implied trust.

fill a slot

Emphasizes occupying a vacant position, less about the responsibilities.

take up the mantle

Implies inheriting a responsibility, often from a predecessor.

get involved in

A broader phrase indicating participation, but less specific about a defined role.

FAQs

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

You can use "take on a role" to describe someone accepting new responsibilities, like "She decided to "take on a role" as team leader".

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

Alternatives include "assume a responsibility", "accept an assignment", or "undertake a task", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "take on a role" or "play a role"?

"Take on a role" implies assuming responsibility, while "play a role" suggests participation without necessarily having authority. The best choice depends on the specific meaning you want to convey.

What does it mean to "take on a role"?

To "take on a role" means to accept and begin to perform a particular job or function. It suggests a formal acceptance of duties and responsibilities.